In September 2004, Baytree Care was awarded the Investor
in People Award, a national award for companies and organisations
who successfully devote resources into training and development
of people (both staff and service users) within their business.
Other notable companies to achieve Investors in People include
Cadburys, Lloyds TSB and WH Smith.
The journey began in July, when the managers at a regular
fortnightly meeting suggested we apply for IIP as a challenge,
to guide us as we improved our employment policies and training
procedures. It was a target that we expected to achieve
over the next 2 years.
Bev
Burden, our appointed IIP Contact spent a week informally
reviewing Baytree policies and procedures and speaking with
staff members at each of the homes. Following this initial
fieldwork, Bev thought that we were in fact ready to apply
for the IIP Award straight away.
It all happened so quickly. 3 weeks later, Mr Jepson an
external assessor came to formally evaluate our service.
All our files were examined with a fine tooth comb. Many
of our staff members were also interviewed.
After this very thorough inspection, Baytree Care was awarded
IIP just 28 days after originally applying. Bev thinks this
may have broken a national record!
On the 24th of November 04, we had a wonderful award ceremony
attended by representatives from the London Boroughs of
Barnet, Enfield and Haringey, and most of the Baytree staff
(not all, as some had to mind the shop). The award itself
was presented by Mr James Taylor, Lead Officer, Barnet SP
team. IIP representatives and some staff members also said
a few words to mark the occasion.
Receiving the IIP Award is a true honour. However, in perspective,
it is merely one large step on Baytree's journey in continuously
striving to improve the service it provides.
