Investors in People (IIP) has this week awarded North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) with the We invest in people, silver accreditation.

The council says that silver is a fantastic achievement and something only 15 per cent of the organisations IIP assess achieve.

A spokesperson for the council added: "It means that the right principles are in place but more than that, it means people and leaders are making active efforts to make sure that there's real consistency and everyone in the organisation is feeling the effects."

North West Leicestershire District Council was first accredited with Investors in People status in 2019.

Since then it has focused on improving communication with staff, increasing learning and development opportunities and providing advice and opportunity around positive health and wellbeing.

The council has moved into hybrid working, with the majority of non-front line staff able to work flexibly, whilst maintaining customer standards and achieving its priorities – all against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: "We'd like to congratulate North West Leicestershire District Council.

"Silver accreditation on We invest in people is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places NWLDC in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people."

Commenting on the award, NWLDC Chief Executive Bev Smith said: "This is something we've worked towards since achieving initial IIP status in 2019 and I'm so proud of the whole council for this fantastic achievement.

"It's great to know that staff feel valued, empowered and supported, as this is the culture that I've really wanted to encourage during my time here."