A quality assurance system helps an organisation run more effectively and efficiently, which in turn provides better services for it users and assurance for its funders.

In February 2009, PREC decided to introduce PQASSO to the organisation as our previous system (Core Standards) became obsolete. Members of staff and the Executive Committee undertook a training day at the Cresset in Peterborough provided by the Charities Evaluation Service, to get a feel and understanding of the process involved.

From this start, a PQASSO Working Group was established, made up of staff and Executive Committee members. This group undertook an initial 'self-assessment' of the organistion against the 12 PQASSO Quality Areas and have been working through each area. Action plans are now being collated and carried out to fine tune the Quality Areas.

PQASSO will then be an integral part of PREC's function and service from March 2010, at which time the Executive Committee will consider our resources in view of applying for official accreditation.

PQASSO is supporting our organisation in offering a trusted and professional service to our service users and funders, which is a high priority for the staff and Executive Committee of PREC.