A WEST Devon environmental group has just been awarded the Investors in People award, in recognition of its commitment to quality training and staff development.
WestDEN, based in Tavistock, was established in 1994 and pioneers new methods in sustainable development and regeneration of rural area facing recession and change.
Nick Biggs, assistant director of West DEN, said: 'Investors in People has made a big difference to the way we review our training and staff development requirements.
'It has enabled us to focus on the aims and objectives of the organisation and match them with staff and volunteer development. This has already increased knowledge and skill levels, which means we are able to give a better service to the community.'
Mr Biggs said achieving Investors in People standard has 'really paid off' for WestDEN.
'We now have a culture based on teamwork and staff involvement, and people are encouraged to contribute ideas to help us achieve our goals.
'Because of that, staff feel much more motivated and enjoy greater job satisfaction,' said Mr Biggs.