Sport and leisure
Walsall Council shortlisted for two national APSE Service Awards
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Two Walsall Council service teams have been shortlisted for national awards.
The council’s Bereavement and Leisure Services teams have both been named finalists at the APSE Service Awards 2025.
These awards celebrate outstanding performance in local government frontline services.
Walsall Council’s Bereavement Services team has been shortlisted for ‘Team of the Year – Cemetery and Crematorium Service’.
The team has been recognised for its shift from a traditional, council-run service to a more modern, commercial and community-focused operation.
Under the theme ‘Changing for the future, changing for the better’, the service has raised its profile and improved customer experience by embracing innovation.
As part of the work, site presentation standards have been enhanced, memorial sales have increased, and the grounds maintenance service has been successfully upskilled.
Meanwhile Walsall Council’s Leisure Services has been shortlisted for ‘Team of the Year – Sports, Leisure and Cultural Services’.
Over the past year, the team has overseen a major transformation across all four council leisure sites. This has included delivering facility upgrades, launching new digital services, and investing in workforce training.
The service has also secured more than £3.2 million in external funding, increased participation and income levels while introducing a range of successful community engagement programmes. These achievements have supported council priorities around health, wellbeing and climate action.
“ To be shortlisted in two categories at these highly competitive national awards is a huge achievement for Walsall Council and a reflection of the hard work, innovation and commitment shown by our frontline teams.
“Both our Bereavement and Leisure Services have delivered exceptional improvements, placing customer experience, community impact and commercial resilience at the heart of what they do. I am incredibly proud of these teams and this well-deserved recognition.
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Winners will be announced in September at the APSE Annual Seminar and Awards in Scotland.
ENDS
