Unionlearn wins national excellence award

Unionlearn, with the North West TUC, has been presented with a coveted award in recognition of its high standards in the delivery of information, advice and guidance to union reps and officers.

It was one of 12 winning organisations that were presented with their matrix Excellence Awards by Phil Hope, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Skills and GB athlete Colin Jackson, CBE at a prestigious event held at Londonís Institute of Directors on November 1.

Dave Eva, North West Regional Manager of unionlearn, said: ìWe are delighted to receive the award as it is a recognition of the quality of the work the unions are doing.

ìOur excellent experience of matrix means that we felt very comfortable in recommending matrix to trade unions. This is a fantastic springboard from which unionlearn can grow with confidence.î

The Awards recognise the achievements of matrix Standard Accredited organisations in how they have maximised its impact for them and more importantly their service users.

These are organisations which have achieved the national quality mark for the information, advice and guidance that they provide internally to their employees and volunteers or externally to their clients. This year the winners have come from a variety of organisations including representatives from both the public and private sectors ñ ranging from college careers services and training providers to community groups.

Skills Minister Phil Hope said:

ìThis Government is determined to give people the help and support they need to build a better life for themselves and their families. Good information, advice and guidance helps people make their own decisions and engage more fully in society. The more government departments, agencies, companies and charities have the ambition to reach out, the more ordinary people will benefit. If we get it right, good information and advice can open all kinds of doors.

ìThe matrix Standard is an excellent way of making sure that whenever we talk to people we do so in a way that suits them. matrix sets out a clear path showing how organisations can deliver high quality IAG. The good news is that matrix is being embraced widely by the public sector, private companies and unions. Todayís winners are wonderful examples of the real difference it is making to peopleís lives.î

The matrix Standard Excellence Awards are open to any organisation that can recognise and celebrate how the application of the matrix Standard has provided outstanding benefits to individuals and the organisation.