The impact the local authority is having on the lives of children in London’s deprived East End has been recognised in a shortlist of national awards for local government services.

Tower Hamlets Council has been shortlisted for its Healthy Early Years scheme and Disabled Children’s services in this year’s Local Government Chronicle awards.

It’s Early Years scheme has improved healthy eating, physical activity and emotional well-being in children and increased awareness in schools of health messages for parents and staff.

The scheme run by the Public Health and Early Years services supports playgroups, school nurseries, child-minders, children’s centres and libraries by providing safe physical and emotional environments, appropriate nutrition and stable relationships.

The Disabled Children’s service has provided parenting programmes and encouraged a positive environment for families’ health and brings together social care, education, health and voluntary organisations.

But Tower Hamlets faces tough competition, with a record number of 640 entries submitted this year with 80 local government organisations in the finals. The awards take place on March 14 at a West End reception.