Community award for court staff

A court in Cornwall has been recognised for its efforts to help china clay workers who were facing redundancy.

Bodmin County Court received the Community Engagement Award from Her Majesty's Court Service (HMCS).

When Imerys, one of Cornwall's largest employers, announced about 700 jobs cuts, the court ran advice days and roadshows on issues like repossession.

Court staff also went into the community to ensure vulnerable groups were aware of its services.

Overseas competition

The china clay industry has employed thousands of workers in Cornwall for more than 250 years.

The massive job losses were announced in July 2006 when French company Imerys said high energy prices, a weak dollar and strong overseas competition meant it had to protect the future of its business by moving much of it to Brazil.

The company also cut a number of jobs in Devon.

The HMCS national awards recognise employees who display exceptional qualities, have the ability to engage and involve themselves in local communities and have a strong commitment to supporting customers.