A BURY firm which specialises in caring for children is caring for its own staff too after winning Investors in People (IIP) recognition.

Established 14 years ago, F & J Rivers Quality Childcare cares for more than 100 children at two nurseries in Radcliffe, Bank House Day Nursery and Mary Kelly's Rascals.

The national business development programme has meant greater access to training for the 26 staff and helped to streamline internal processes.

These have taken place during a period of expansion that has seen the opening of new after-school and baby facilities at Bank House. Proprietor Frances Rivers, whose daughter Jenny is manager of Bank House, says: "Because we were expanding our business, I felt that Investors in People was the next step for us and it has been a very positive experience for everyone.

"We are part of a very strong team, which has learned a great deal. Well-focused training, developing management skills and greater communication within the nurseries has been a major benefit."

She added: "Each staff member has the opportunity to put their views forward and because they are more involved in the business they feel more valued."

Hazel Hampson, part of the Bolton and Bury Chamber workforce development team which helped the nurseries through the IIP process, said: "The staff at both nurseries have worked hard for this achievement.

"Investors in People has helped streamline the two sites and has been an effective tool for managing the expansion of the business. Each member of the team deserves congratulations on their efforts."