Motov8, on Gregory's Mill Street, works with youngsters who have fallen out of mainstream education.

The charity has recently been awarded the keeping it safe standard by the National Council for Voluntary Youth Services, an accreditation given to organisations who have developed policies to safeguard child protection.

Managing director of Motov8, Reverend Mark Badger, said: "It is all about keeping the young people safe. It has taken us a year and a lot of hard work to get the accreditation so we are really pleased.

"It has been a really positive thing for us to do because it highlighted areas we needed to improve. It has made us stop and look at the way we do things and ultimately puts us ahead of the game.

"The children will not know it is affecting them but it is all designed for their safety, happiness and welfare. It does have an impact on them but they will not see it."

The keeping it safe standards covers the following areas: - The organisations policies and procedures.

- Reporting concerns, suspicions and procedures.

- Safe recruitment and selection.

- Managing paid staff and volunteers.

- Providing education and support.

- Providing safe activities.

These standards have been endorsed by the Department for education and skills and the accreditation process is voluntary.