Share your thoughts on the future of workplace training

The British Chambers of Commerce has set up a Workplace Training and Development Commission to look at ways to boost workforce training and development for the over-25s.

It is keen to hear from Cumbrian businesses to find out what you’re doing to upskill staff and what prevents you from doing more.

You can share your thoughts by completing our short survey here.

The Commission is made up of businesses and skills experts and is gathering evidence from Chambers across the UK.

It is due to publish an interim report in the spring looking at how to remove barriers and provide solutions and incentives for employers to invest in skills.

The research aims to put the Chamber network in a stronger position to help members, underpinning our national lobbying and representation and informing the delivery of practical support services at a local level.

Rob Johnston, Chief Executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “Finding the right staff for your business is a challenge – especially in Cumbria.

“Eden and South Lakeland have the lowest unemployment rate in the UK and, to compound the issue, our working-age population is shrinking.

“These labour and skills shortages may be exacerbated if changes to immigration policies reduce the supply of EU migrant workers.

“Part of the solution lies in encouraging businesses to upskill and reskill their existing adult workforce to fill job vacancies.

“Yet the British Chambers’ Quarterly Economic Survey shows that employer investment in training is falling. We must reverse that trend and that’s what the Workplace Training and Development Commission aims to do.

“It’s vital that it gathers intelligence, which is why we’ve set up this survey.

“We’re keen to hear from businesses of all sizes and from all sectors. The survey takes only a few minutes to complete. Your input is much appreciated.”