A safe haven for homeless people and rough sleepers in Ipswich has attracted national recognition.

Ipswich Star: The Advice Quality Standard quality mark displayed at the Chapman Centre in Ipswich. Picture: IHAGThe Advice Quality Standard quality mark displayed at the Chapman Centre in Ipswich. Picture: IHAG (Image: Archant)

The Chapman Centre, run by Ipswich Housing Action Group (IHAG) and located in Black Horse Lane, has won the Advice Quality Standard (AQS), a quality mark for organisations providing free, independent advice to members of the public.

Halford Hewitt, director of IHAG, said: ‘We are really pleased to have been awarded the AQS as it shows the people using our service, as well as those funding our service, that we are working to the best possible professional standards.”

The AQS is given by the national umbrella group, the Advice Services Alliance.

Mayor of Ipswich Roger Fern, who was involved in the development of the Chapman Centre, said: “The work and services that IHAG Chapman Centre provides to homeless and vulnerable people in Ipswich are absolutely vital.

“The dedication of the staff and the volunteers to high quality service and excellent standards for their clients makes a positive difference to them and to the wider community.

“I am delighted they have achieved this prestigious award and congratulate everyone that has contributed to such tremendous success.”