Frequently asked questions

Can I enter more than one category or enter the same submission for different categories?

We positively encourage you to look at submitting an entry for each of the categories or as many as you would like; that way you stand a better chance of being shortlisted for the APSE Overall Council of The Year. For clarity, this does not mean you need to have four shortlisted submissions to have a chance of winning, just four high scoring submissions across the categories.

Unfortunately, due to the judging criteria, we are unable to accept the same entry for different categories. Each needs to be unique. So please do not submit the same entry for different categories.  If in doubt call us!

What will the application form look like? How long should it be?

Your application form for your entries will be in an electronic format that you will receive by email. It is an easy to follow template. It will include the following sections for you to complete:-

• A one page Executive Summary
• Background to the initiative/service development (aims and objectives)
• Evidence of improvements achieved and challenges overcome
• How the initiative links to the wider council objectives
• Your targets for the future and the framework within which they operate

The maximum words allowed is 2000 (this excludes the 332 words contained within this actual template document).

Can I include pictures or staff / team biographies?

Yes! But please make sure your overall file size does not exceed 2MB. As pictures tend to make  your file quite large  please make sure your file is reduced in size so we can receive your entry. PDF are often useful to reduce your file size using adobe features… And remember even if you add in lots of information you are still limited to 2000 words - so make every word count!

What will the judges be looking for?

Remember you are writing your entry for a judge who has no idea what your service team does or what your initiative is about so remember to tell us some essentials. We would suggest:

• A description of the initiative (highlighting innovation, imagination and ambition)
• Why it was set up? Can you evidence a good clear strategy for the project
• How does it work?
• Evidence of good management and clear communication to stakeholders
• Good leadership; how did you overcome challenges and creatively tackle problems?
• Can you evidence what you have achieved or set out to do?
• Shows value ( value to customers, value for money or value to service)
• Benefits to customers/citizens

And remember for Best Service Team submissions also include:

• How you deliver the best service possible
• How you deliver in the spirit of continuous improvement
• How you work as a team with other services and partners

Any other tips?

Remember the basics:-   

• Be clear, easy to read and well laid out
• Focus on content (pictures etc. can be useful but content is paramount)
• We do not accept separate appendices 
• Include an Executive Summary
• Tell us about any other accreditations or awards such as IIP, or ISO or benchmarking excellence

What if we are successful in becoming a finalist?

If you are successful you will be notified by email for each category in which you are successful. We will aim to do this by 30 July 2021. The award winners will be announced from our finalists at the rise of the APSE Annual Seminar 2021 which will take place in the Midlands.