Rotherham youth charity with 'people at its heart' retains national accreditation
Rush House was established in 1982 in response to youth homelessness and provides 50 units of fully supported accommodation for young people
A leading Rotherham charity which has been described as a "lifeline" by its young service users has retained a national accreditation, after independent assessors highlighted its “person-centred approach” and staff putting individuals “at the heart of everything they do.”
Rush House has retained the nationally recognised Matrix Standard accreditation for its Employment, Education and Training and Community Services, following a comprehensive independent review.
The Matrix Standard is the Department for Education's quality standard for organisations delivering information, advice and guidance services.
The assessment involved a full-day on-site review at the charitable organisation's Doncaster Road base featuring interviews with staff, partners and service users, alongside scrutiny of organisational documentation, performance data and feedback.
The report highlighted the charity's “person-centred approach, strong partnership working and unwavering commitment to supporting those most vulnerable and excluded in society.”
Assessors noted that staff placed individuals “at the heart of everything they do, with information, advice and guidance embedded throughout all services.”
Feedback gathered during the review including service users describing Rush House as a "lifeline" and praising staff for their “supportive and understanding approach.”
The report also highlighted the “effectiveness” of the charity's leadership, strategic management and its “commitment” to staff wellbeing.
Rush House was established in 1982 in response to youth homelessness and provides 50 units of fully supported accommodation for young people alongside a range of education, employment, training, health and community-based programmes.
Rachael Wilson, chief executive officer of Rush House Ltd, said: "We are incredibly proud to have retained the Matrix Standard accreditation.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication, compassion and expertise of our staff team, trustees and partners, who work tirelessly to support some of the most disadvantaged people across Rotherham and South Yorkshire.
"At Rush House, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their potential, regardless of the challenges they face.
“Whether through our supported accommodation, employment and skills programmes, health inclusion initiatives or community-based services, our focus remains on helping people build confidence, develop independence and create brighter futures."