THE dedication and hard work of staff at Age UK Oxfordshire has been rewarded after the charity was recognised by industry leaders.

The organisation has been awarded the Age UK Charity Quality Standard (CQS) which recognises its high standard of performance.

Chief executive of Age UK Oxfordshire Penny Thewlis, said: ‘We’re absolutely delighted to have been awarded the Quality Standard.

"The process is really rigorous and this award reflects the dedication and hard work put in by staff and volunteers on a daily basis.

"We know that we can always improve on what we do, but we can feel justly proud for a little while.’’

Assessors examined Age UK Oxfordshire under key areas such as making sure the charity uses its resources effectively to respond to local need, encouraging, listening and acting on feedback, data protection and compliance with all regulatory requirements.

The charity employs 180 staff and works with more than 500 volunteers to provide support services and activities for older people in Oxfordshire.

The work is funded through donations from the public, income from charity shops, and charitable grants.

For more information call 0345 450 1276 or visitt he charity's website at www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire