Work Avenue accredited to the Matrix Standard

We are delighted to announce that Work Avenue has been re-accredited to the Matrix Standard.

Matrix is the Department for Education-owned international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice and/or guidance to clients.

Our CEO Debbie Lebrett said: “For a communal charity to achieve this award is a major milestone and I am so proud of our entire team at Work Avenue, who have had their dedication, commitment and success recognised in this way. I would also like thank all of our clients who gave up their time to take part in the accreditation process.”

Organisations need to re-apply for accreditation every three years. The process includes evidence gathering, document review, client interviews and evidence of having put in place suggested developments from previous reports.

Matrix Assessor Janet Lewis-Jones spent two days with us – interviewing 10 members of staff, 11 clients and six partner organisations.

Her report states: “Work Avenue employ a flexible, bespoke and organic approach that enables them to support the widest range of clients from ‘big wage earners’, to sixth formers, to women returners, and including people facing multiple barriers such as learning difficulties, mental health issues and neurodiversity.

The report adds: “There is powerful and impactful synergy between Work Avenue’s various work strands. For example, a client might initially access Employment Support, identify self-employment as an option, receive Business Support, book a hot desk (and access to all that comes with that), dip their toe into freelancing via WAGE, move to the first floor, become a WAGE partner, and then recruit staff via the Jobs Board service! A number of clients interviewed had been on this very journey.

“Work Avenue’s services complement and feed into each other – giving clients access to a comprehensive package of support to improve their chances of success.”

Roger Chapman, Head of the Matrix Service for The Growth Company added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Work Avenue. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available.”