Sutton Council and the voluntary sector have won an award for the work they do together.

The London Borough of Sutton Compact group, who manage the relationship, were presented with the “Local Compact Partnership Award” at a Whitehall ceremony on Wednesday.

The Compact agreement came into being in 2003 but was refreshed last year.

Judges said the agreement won because of its focus on practical support of the partnership, their help during the transition to the new way of working and the leadership they offer.

The refresh was considered to have enhanced the relationship between all organisations involved.

It is designed to promote ways of working that improve relationships to the advantage of both sectors.

The new agreement includes voluntary groups, the council, the police, fire and rescue service and the local clinical commissioning group.

Denise Crone, Chair of Sutton Centre for the Voluntary Sector, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the outstanding partnership between the local authority and the voluntary sector in Sutton has been recognised with this award.

“We want to make sure that the work we do benefits the local community and the Sutton Compact will make sure that this is the case.”

Councillor Simon Wales, lead member for the voluntary sector, said: “Receiving this award on behalf of the Sutton Compact was the proudest moment of my time on the council.”

He added: “The Compact really has given us the framework to work together to deliver solutions for the benefit of our fellow residents".