Following the successful introduction of the Employer Training Pilots, the new national initiative Train to Gain has been launched.
For employers all over England, this means access to a range of services and subsidised training.
From April 3rd, the scheme is rolling out across the following areas: Berkshire; Birmingham and Solihull; Black Country; Cambridgeshire; County Durham; Derbyshire; Devon and Cornwall; Essex; Greater Manchester; Kent and Medway; Lancashire; Leicestershire; London East; Northumberland; Shropshire; South Yorkshire; Tees Valley; Tyne and Wear; West Yorkshire and Wiltshire and Swindon.
The rest of England will be covered from August 2006.
If you are outside these areas, you can still contact the scheme now, to find out how Train to Gain can benefit you.
The scheme uses brokers to help companies identify skill needs, and then find the right training to meet those needs. The brokers will make sure the training is tailored to your needs, delivered in a way that suits your business. They can also help you find funding, especially for training at basic skills and Level 2 (qualifications equivalent to 5 GCSEs at A*-C).
The broker will also help you make the most of the training by assisting in evaluation.
Some wage compensation may also be available to release staff, especially in small firms.
Contact Train to Gain in your area via the website at www.traintogain.gov.uk
Added 25 April 2006