CLITHEROE-based safeguarding specialists, The Athena Programme, has marked its fifth year in business and celebrated by reporting an increase in growth.

The award-winning firm, which offers a range of training and consultancy services for the safeguarding of children and young people, has worked with organisations across the UK including care providers, charities, schools and local authorities.

Founded by Sarah Goodall in 2007, the company has trained more than 4,000 individuals and demand for Athena’s services continues to grow.