Bolton Mark accreditation
Bolton Mark - Awarded by Active Lives (Public Health)
What is the Bolton Mark
The Bolton Mark has been developed to help groups and organisations raise standards in safety, organisation, development and quality of provision to the public. As an awarding body we strive to work together to develop a diverse, strong and effective voluntary and community sector in Bolton.
Bolton Mark is currently awarded to 3 main groups
- Sport & Physical Activity Providers
- Voluntary Community Groups
- Play & Youth Providers
Those achieving the Bolton Mark accreditation certificate are recognised as:
“Complying with all robust operating standards as set by the Bolton Mark Board, deeming the organisation safe, accessible and effective. The accreditation is a mark of high quality for organisations working within communities.”
What Are The Benefits Of Completing Bolton Mark
- Your organisation being endorsed as a quality provision by Bolton Council
- It can help you raise your profile to public users and other organisations
- Increased exposure of your organisation through Bolton Council’s social media channels
- Access to avenues of funding which are ring-fenced for organisations with Bolton Mark or equivalent accreditation.
- Bolton Mark certified image attached to your session if featured on Let’s Keep Bolton Moving website
- Support of named Bolton Council Active Lives development officer to help your organisation develop further
- Access to free courses
- Free DBS checks for your volunteers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I have to do?
There are 10 sections to the accreditation. Much of the information needed will already be used by your groups, if not our Bolton Council Active Lives development officers will be able to support you to evidence it. We also have several key criteria templates which you can use and adapt to suit your organisation.
- Governance.
- Safe & Sound Working Practices
- Funding
- Financial Systems
- Strategic/Business Planning – If Applicable
- User Centred Service
- Volunteering
- External Environment (What goes on around us)
- Paid Staff – If Applicable
- Safeguarding Children & Young People (CYP)
How Long Will It Take To Complete Bolton Mark?
We expect organisations to have completed the accreditation within 12 months, although many organisations have it completed within 3 months.
How Long Does The Accreditation Last?
Accreditation lasts for 3 years, with yearly touch points booked in by our staff to help you keep your accreditation on track.
Will It Cost Me Anything To Complete The Accreditation?
No, there isn’t a cost attached to the accreditation from us, however there may be a cost to some external training that may need to be done, such as First Aid etc.
Do We Have To Do It By Ourselves?
No, our Bolton Council Active Lives development officers are available to offer support, provide templates and direct your organisation to training/workshops if necessary.