Launchpad has been awarded the Reading Advice Network (RAN) Quality Standard – meaning the information and advice we offer at our drop-in service meets the very highest standards.
RAN is an umbrella organisation and independent charity, which promotes excellence in the delivery of information and advice to the public. The RAN Quality Standard accreditation is awarded to organisations following a thorough assessment and enables partner agencies, funders and clients to be confident that an organisation is providing a high-quality service to the people who come to them for help.
Launchpad’s drop-in service is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.00am to 2.00pm at Launchpad’s office, and is for anyone who needs housing or homelessness-related information and guidance. You don’t need to be referred or book a time; we ask people to simply come along during the drop-in service’s opening times and speak to one of our friendly, trained team.
The RAN Quality Standard assessment process for our drop-in service involved a comprehensive self-assessment in line with the Quality Standard booklet, a discussion with a RAN independent assessor to talk through questions that emerged from the self-assessment and a visit by a RAN independent assessor. Areas that were assessed include the drop-in service complaints procedure, privacy policy, accurate record-keeping and appropriate signposting.
Janine Breakspear, Floating Support Team Leader at Launchpad and manager of the charity’s drop-in service, said: “The staff and volunteers at Launchpad always strive to offer the absolute best service to everyone who comes through our doors, and we are so pleased to be recognised for the high-quality support we provide at drop-in.
“Sometimes people who don’t have a stable place to live or are worried about losing their home have nowhere to turn – which is why drop-in exists. We provide vital information and guidance to help people get back on their feet. This could be help with budgeting so someone is able to pay their rent, assistance with knowing your rights when it comes to landlords or signposting to substance misuse services.
“The accreditation will give members of the public reassurance that our service is the best place to come for housing-related support and help.”
Launchpad was awarded RAN Quality Standard certificate earlier this week, and will now use the RAN Quality Standard logo and be added to our list of RAN Quality Standard Holders – which include Age UK Reading, Reading Mencap and Dingley’s Promise.
