THE CHARITY THAT offers support for people with visual impairment, blind or deaf in Moray and throughout the north east has been praised for its ‘people skills’.

North East Sensory Services (Ness) has been shortlisted for recognition by the Investors in People awards for excellence in the Third Sector category.

Ness, who base their Moray services at a support office in Elgin, supports over 4800 people throughout the north east having been established in Aberdeen over 135 years ago.

Hilary Crick, who is a specialist with Investors in People Scotland, told the charity: “I was particularly impressed with their leadership, sense of purpose and the enthusiasm of your people. You really do put your people first and this has resulted in a dedicated, committed and empowered workforce and volunteers group.

“Your people have transformed your organisation from a relatively small local charity offering support to people with sight loss and 93% reliant on local authority grants, to an integrated provider of dual sensory support and a turnover that exceeds £2million.”

Being shortlisted for the award is no mean feat with Ness facing stern competition from around the world – a point recognised by Graham Findlay, the chief executive of Ness.

He said: “We are very proud of our staff and volunteers being shortlisted for this award – it recognises that everyone at Ness is dedicated to helping blind and deaf people achieve their independence.

By meeting the Investors in People gold standard, Ness is positioned among the very best in the world when it comes to people management, which is quite an achievement.”

For more information on Ness services from Elizabeth House in Elgin visit them online.