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Oldham Council shortlisted for council of the year

Oldham Council has been shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Council of the Year’ category at the 2014 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards.

The LGC says a record breaking 640 entries were submitted for this year’s awards, demonstrating local government’s enthusiasm to share innovation and reward their teams and individuals who make change happen.

There are more than 80 organisations in the final, which means there is fierce competition for each of the coveted awards.

With budgets at the forefront of priorities, the LGC says it is even more important this year to highlight those organisations who demonstrate best practice and to shine a spotlight on their achievements.

Oldham Council’s submission for ‘Council of the Year’ highlights the transformation to a Co-operative Council and the work enabling it to lead public service reform, re-invigorate its democratic leadership role and deliver investment, regeneration and new employment opportunities.

The Local Authority has also been shortlisted for the ‘Corporate Governance’ Award in a submission that highlights the significant organisational change undertaken to deliver effective financial management and underpin the shift to district-led delivery of many services.

Councillor Jim McMahon, Oldham Council leader, said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted by the LGC for two prestigious honours.”

“Following on from the recent results of an independent assessment of Oldham Council by our peers, this is further recognition from our peers that we are continuing to make good progress.

“It is also acknowledgement of the hard work being undertaken by and between staff, ward members, partners and residents alike as a Co-operative Council.”

Emma Maier, editor of LGC said: “Congratulations to all shortlisted organisations.

“Local government has lots to shout about, and these awards are part of that. Each of you should feel proud to be among our finalists.”

As part of the ‘Council of the Year’ evaluation, two judges will be visiting Oldham Council later this month.

Councils shortlisted for this award are also required to make a short presentation to judges – and in front of their peers – on the day of the awards ceremony on March 12, 2014.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Graham Vincent .