The northern branch of Charedi welfare charity Interlink has received recognition for its advice and adult learning services. The Matrix Standard — a nationally accepted mark of good practice commonly awarded to employment agencies and higher education institutions — puts Interlink in a stronger position to apply for government funding.

Director Nava Kestenbaum hopes the formal acknowledgement of “Interlink’s high standards” will increase opportunities to assist the community.

Salford-based Interlink provides funding and operational advice to around 60 local Charedi organisations and charities. More recently it has provided adult learning degrees and NVQs for over 200 Charedim who do not attend mainstream institutions.