THE Orchard Trust charity, which operates out of Lydbrook, has been awarded a significant 'Investors in People' silver award.

The Trust, an independent charity providing services for people with learning disabilities and founded by a group of parents and carers is described as: "Such a great place to work" by staff.

CEO of Orchard Trust, Gareth Jones, said: "I am

delighted the Trust has gained the Investors in People Silver award as it reflects the commitment of our staff in ensuring the Trust is a positive place to work. Our staff are our most valuable resource and developing them, and using the Investors in People Framework to continually improve organisational performance, enables us to progress towards our vision 'to be excellent in all that we do'. Gaining Investors in People Silver recognition, is a significant achievement, and has reinforced the culture of openness and engagement at the charity...next step gold!"

Recognising Excellence assessor, Helen Roberts, commented: "I am delighted that Orchard Trust has achieved Investors in People Silver.

"The organisation has done a great deal to embrace people development and communication as a key theme for success. Every employee at all levels, whether they have been with the organisation for three days or many years, can and do contribute to the success of the company. Staff wholeheartedly and enthusiastically support the organisation as it sets out to achieve its goals and priorities."