ODS triumphs with APSE Service Award: Best Workforce Initiative 

ODS has won the prestigious Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Service Award 2024 in the category of Best Workforce Initiative. 

This accolade recognises ODS' innovative approach to workforce communication and engagement through the introduction of a mobile phone app that is being used very widely by all ODS staff. 

Emerging from the global pandemic, ODS faced significant communication challenges within its predominantly remote workforce. A 2022 staff survey revealed that communication between teams was suffering, particularly among frontline staff, with limited access to digital platforms. To address these challenges, ODS launched Blink on 4 July 2023; a robust, user-friendly mobile app designed to enhance communication and consistency across the organisation. 

Since it was implemented, Blink has achieved 100 per cent registration among ODS employees, significantly improving internal communication and engagement. The app integrates critical systems, offers tailored content delivery, and includes language translation capabilities, effectively addressing previous issues of access and engagement. 

Blink has also been praised by ODS unions (Unite and Unison) for its role in promoting their services and facilitating discussions. The app’s emphasis on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) through multi-language support reflects ODS’ dedication to clear and inclusive communication. 

The APSE Service Awards were presented at the Annual Charity Awards Dinner on 12 September, in support of Parkinson’s UK, held at the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel. This recognition underscores ODS' commitment to innovation and setting new standards in workforce communication and engagement.  

“ODS has scooped yet another award, confirming that the organisation is focussed on providing top quality services for the people of Oxford and consistently looking for ways to improve service provision. I want to congratulate ODS for winning this award and the staff whose efforts made it possible. ODS continue to prove that they are doing good for our city.” 
Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies  

“We are incredibly proud to receive the APSE Service Award for Best Workforce Initiative. The success of the Blink app is a testament to our commitment to enhancing communication and engagement across our diverse, primarily remote workforce. As we continue to innovate and refine our processes, our goal remains to foster a more inclusive, efficient, and environmentally conscious workplace. This award motivates us to strive for even greater excellence in our service to our employees, the communities and the businesses we serve.” 
Simon Howick, Managing Director, ODS   

“Across local government, there are a multitude of people working to deliver the very best for their local communities. At a time when national politics is dominating the headlines, it is more vital than ever that we acknowledge the dedication of our frontline service teams and the positive impact they have on their communities.    

“APSE is proud to give local authorities the recognition they deserve through the Annual Service Awards. This year’s winners are a testament to the innovation, dedication and perseverance shown by the unsung heroes of local government – congratulations to you all!”  
Mo Baines, APSE Chief Executive  

For more, visit the APSE Service Awards website.