How we measure up

At Skills for Work we are proud of the quality service we provide for our customers and our dedicated to providing outstanding customer service.

We are regularly monitored by external agencies such as Ofsted to ensure the service we offer to our customers is of the highest possible standard.

The following are examples of our achievements and latest inspection results.

Our Matrix accreditation

The Matrix Standard is a national quality framework for information, advice and guidance services (IAG), relating to learning and work.

Skills for Work achieved the standard in 2005 and succeeded in gaining re-accreditation in 2008, 2011, 2014, 2017 and most recently in 2020.

It is important to Skills for Work that everyone has access to information which is up-to-date, easy to understand and which addresses the wide range of questions and concerns people have about engaging in learning, skills development and employment.

Our customers receive support from our competent staff which is individually tailored to meet their specific needs. Should cases arise where we are unable to meet a customer's individual needs, we are able to refer them to other relevant organisations.

Some people need advice to help them overcome their barriers to learning and work. We support our customers to make realistic and well informed choices that can enable them to achieve their potential and aspirations.

We aim to deliver a high quality experience to our customers, where we focus on the needs and well-being of the individuals we are seeking to support.

Our inspection results

Skill for Work had a short inspection by Ofsted in December 2017 and was rated as Good. The inspection was the first short inspection carried out since the provider was judged to be good in March 2014.

The Report stated: "The Skills for Work provision have established a well-articulated vision and a clear strategy which clarify how the service will contribute to two of the six strategic priorities in the Bradford Council Plan. You have maintained the strengths identified at the previous inspection and made good progress in addressing areas for improvement."

The Ofsted inspectors awarded the following grades following a full inspection in March 2014:

• Overall effectiveness: Good - 2
• Outcomes for learners: Good - 2
• Quality of teaching, learning and assessments: Good - 2
• Effectiveness of leadership and management: Good - 2

Further information on how inspection judgements are made can be found at the Ofsted website.