A WORCESTERSHIRE recruitment and training provider has been awarded an accolade for its work with businesses and the community. eResponse Recruitment , which is based in Redditch, has been given a Matrix Accreditation – the training provider equivalent of a glowing Ofsted report - after an assessment of its information, advice and guidance to employed and unemployed people and potential employers looking for the right recruits. Its award-winning training academies are helping people in Worcestershire with free training and accredited qualifications to prepare them for work and to help employers plug the skills gap.

eResponse achieved the Matrix standard following a two-day audit by EMQC, the organisation that monitors standards on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Auditors looked at leadership and management, resources, service delivery and continuous quality improvement.

Sam Morgan, head of eResponse Recruitment’s training academy, said: “This is a bit like when a school gets rated outstanding by Ofsted so we are extremely proud. It recognises our training standards, approach, the commitment of our staff and the dedication they have to our students and clients.”

The recognition rounds off a successful period for eResponse. In December the firm gained a place for the first time ever in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 and last month officially launched its network of training academies with Karren Brady as the guest speaker. The firm was founded in 2003 by brothers Joe and Paul Alekna and has now has 50 employees across three branches and training academies in Redditch, Worcester and Kidderminster