Government training scheme 'helped' during the recession

The government's Train to Gain scheme, which is designed to help employers upgrade skill levels in their workforces, has been praised for its effectiveness in a new survey.

Figures released by the Skills and Learning Council showed that, of those employers who joined the Train to Gain scheme, 80 per cent said that they were likely to recommend it to other employers and to use it again themselves.

Over four in ten (41 per cent) believed that the training opportunities provided by the scheme helped them cope with the recession.

The survey also found that Train to Gain encourages employers to engage with training and development of staff.

Employers who have taken part in Train to Gain reported that they have been able to train more staff and give them access to higher quality qualifications than they would have done otherwise.

Kevin Brennan, the Skills Minister, said: "Thousands of businesses and tens of thousands of employees have benefited from the improved skills delivered by the Train to Gain programme. This is crucial for the long-term strength of the economy and the ability of individuals to fulfil their potential.

"The fact that so many employers understand how vital skills and training can be shows how effective the support has been during difficult economic times. We remain committed to ensuring that as many people as possible get the skills they need to benefit from the opportunities of growth."

Managed by the Learning and Skills Council, Train to Gain is the government's flagship training service in England.

The purpose of Train to Gain is to offer eligible employers funding for first full qualifications among their workforces, mainly at levels 2 and 3, and for leadership and management training.