A DEDICATED team working for the unemployed and young homeless in South Oxhey had their hard work recognised with the award of a Matrix accreditation.

All Saints' Centre for Employment and New Directions (Ascend) is a one-stop shop which provides training and advice for local residents.

It provides short-term accommodation for homeless people in the area through a scheme called Crashpad.

The charity was assessed according to Matrix Quality Standards on key areas of information, advice and guidance.

An assessor from the Guidance Accreditation Board, which oversees all frontline guidance work, interviewed the team of seven paid staff, 25 volunteers, plus clients and trustees.

Mrs Christine Wyard, project manager, said: "This award will ensure we give a high quality service with more confident and flexible individuals who are motivated and committed to learning and work."

"This really is a wonderful Ascend team effort."

January 30, 2003 15:00