Wigan Council: A Leader in Government Administration, Recognised for Excellence
Wigan Council is a forward-thinking local government body that has garnered significant recognition for its commitment to enhancing the borough of Wigan. With an unwavering dedication to community welfare and employee satisfaction, Wigan Council has positioned itself as a model for others in the field of local government administration. This article will delve into the history, values, achievements, and services of Wigan Council, highlighting the awards it has earned and the positive impact it continues to have on its residents and employees.
About Wigan Council
Founded in 1974
Wigan Council was established in 1974 as part of the local government reorganisation in England. Serving as the governing body for the Metropolitan Borough of Wigan in Greater Manchester, it plays a crucial role in ensuring that local services and infrastructure meet the needs of the borough’s approximately 323,000 residents. Since its inception, the council has focused on fostering a community-oriented environment, striving to make Wigan a better place to live, work, study, and invest.
Headquarters
The headquarters of Wigan Council is located in the heart of Wigan, a town within Greater Manchester. It serves as the central hub for all administrative functions, where key decisions regarding local services, infrastructure, education, housing, and social care are made. The council is committed to delivering excellent services that enhance the quality of life for all Wigan residents.
Website and Online Presence
Wigan Council has a robust online presence, which helps residents access services, get information, and engage with local governance. The official website, www.wigan.gov.uk, is a key resource for finding local news, updates, and information about public services. Residents can also use the website to report issues, pay council tax, access local health and social services, and stay informed about council meetings and events.
Wigan Council’s Core Values and Achievements
Core Values
Wigan Council has a strong set of core values that define its approach to governance, employee relations, and service delivery. These values are embodied in the phrase “Team Wigan,” which emphasizes the importance of kindness, positivity, accountability, and courage. These values guide the council’s decision-making and service delivery, ensuring that they remain aligned with the needs and expectations of the people they serve.
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Kindness: The council believes in treating people with empathy and respect, both in its interactions with residents and staff.
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Positivity: Wigan Council fosters an optimistic approach to problem-solving, embracing opportunities for growth and development.
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Accountability: The council holds itself accountable to its residents, ensuring transparency in decision-making and the effective use of public funds.
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Courage: Wigan Council is not afraid to take bold actions, particularly when it comes to tackling challenging issues or implementing innovative solutions.
These values are reflected in everything the council does, making it a great place to work and a leader in local government administration.
Awards and Recognition
Wigan Council has earned numerous accolades for its outstanding service and progressive governance. Some of the most notable achievements include:
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Overall Council of the Year 2023 (APSE): In 2023, Wigan Council was awarded this prestigious title by the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE). This recognition highlighted the council’s excellence in delivering public services that positively impact its community.
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Council of the Year 2019 (LGC): The Local Government Chronicle (LGC) named Wigan Council “Council of the Year” in 2019 for its innovation in public service delivery and community engagement.
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Best Place to Be an Apprentice (2024): Wigan Council has also been recognized for its commitment to providing excellent opportunities for young people, particularly in the field of apprenticeships.
These awards reflect the council’s ability to adapt to changing needs and consistently provide services that meet the highest standards of public administration.
Working at Wigan Council
Employee Benefits and Work Environment
Wigan Council prides itself on being a rewarding and supportive place to work. With over 10,000 employees, it offers a range of career opportunities in various fields, from education and healthcare to administration and public service. The council is committed to fostering a positive work culture where employees feel valued and supported in their roles.
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Flexible Working: Wigan Council understands the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offers flexible working hours and remote working options. Employees can choose the working environment that best helps them perform their job, whether that’s in the office, at home, or out in the community.
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Staff Volunteering: As part of its commitment to the local community, Wigan Council encourages its employees to take two volunteering days per year. This initiative allows staff to give back to the community while also enhancing their own personal development.
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Recognition for Attendance: Employees who maintain 100% attendance are rewarded with an additional day off, reflecting the council’s appreciation for its staff’s commitment and hard work.
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Employee Satisfaction: Wigan Council boasts high staff satisfaction rates, thanks to its focus on employee wellbeing and the overall positive work environment.
Career Opportunities
The local authority offers a variety of career opportunities that foster personal growth and development. With a strong emphasis on professional advancement, staff have access to training programs, mentorship opportunities, and clear paths for career progression within the organization.
Wigan Council’s Services and Specialties
Public Services and Community Support
Wigan Council provides a wide variety of essential services that benefit the borough’s residents. These services include education, housing, healthcare, social care, waste management, and more. Some of the council’s key specialties include:
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Education: Wigan Council is responsible for ensuring that children have access to high-quality education. The council manages local schools, provides support for special educational needs, and works to improve educational outcomes across the borough.
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Housing: Wigan Council plays a central role in managing housing in the area, including council housing, housing support services, and homelessness prevention.
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Social Care: The council provides a wide range of social care services for vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, children in care, and those with disabilities.
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Waste Management: Wigan Council is committed to providing efficient waste collection services, ensuring the borough remains clean and sustainable.
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Environmental Initiatives: The council is dedicated to preserving the local environment through initiatives that promote sustainability, including recycling programs and green space preservation.
Local Economic Development
Wigan Council has a strong focus on promoting economic growth within the borough. The council works with local businesses and investors to create a thriving local economy, supporting initiatives that create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and attract new businesses to the area.
Conclusion
Wigan Council has proven to be an exemplary local authority, earning numerous awards for its services, governance, and work culture. With a focus on community well-being, employee satisfaction, and innovative public services, the council has positioned itself as a leader in local government administration. If you’re looking to learn more about the services Wigan Council offers or find career opportunities, visit their official website www.wigan.gov.uk.
