Council’s Sports Services triumphs with Customer Service Excellence Award

This is presented by the Cabinet Office in recognition of high standards of customer service and commitment to continuous improvement.

Speaking about the success, Chairman of Leisure Services Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “I am delighted to see the hard work of the Council’s Sports Services staff rewarded by obtaining a CSE award. What is remarkable about this achievement is that Sports Services encompasses Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, the Council’s four Activity Centres and Sports Development. So in essence six of the Council’s services have received the CSE award. I would like to congratulate all those Council employees who played a part in this wonderful accomplishment.

“The fact that so many of the Council’s services or facilities have either achieved CSE awards or are working towards attaining them is testimony to the high level of commitment throughout the organisation to being entirely customer-focused,” he added.

Areas that were highlighted as examples of excellent customer service included positive staff attitude, willingness of staff to be of assistance and staff expertise. It was also noted that there were a number of systems put in place to build customer-staff relationships and promote a culture of customer care.

Overall the report was extremely complimentary and encouraging for both the members of staff involved and for customers.

Director of Leisure Services, Jim Rose, commented: “I would like to add my congratulations to everyone involved in achieving the CSE Award. It is remarkable for so many services within one organisation to accomplish this quality standard. Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and the Council’s Activity Centres provide excellent leisure facilities to all ages and all abilities throughout the City. The venues are integral to the Lisburn leisure product and many local sporting talents have used them for training. Sports Development continues to promote a wide range of sporting opportunities as well as playing an active role in internationally recognised sporting events across the City. Achieving CSE status demonstrates the level of commitment to serving its customers.”

The Customer Service Excellence Award is granted by the Cabinet Office, following a formal assessment of pre-set criteria. This covers; customer insight, the culture of the organisation, information and access, delivery, timeliness and quality of service. It is a tool for continuous improvement and once awarded an ongoing programme of review will take place to ensure standards are maintained and developed over time.