£500 training grants

[Tom B]

"Skills Development Scotland have released some funding for training which will be used on a first come first served basis and it is likely this will have been used by mid-July.

Log on to http://www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co ... ities.aspx for details.



This new initiative announced by Skills Development Scotland is to support Flexible Training Opportunities.



The Flexible Training Opportunities programme gives Scottish businesses with 1-50 employees the opportunity to apply for up to £500* towards employee training costs.



The aim of Flexible Training Opportunities is to help Scottish businesses invest in learning and development opportunities for their employees. The focus of the programme is to support learning activity which promotes improved workplace productivity, helping employers to increase organisational resilience through this period of economic recovery. Skills Development Scotland will provide a financial contribution to these businesses to encourage investment in learning and development for staff, and so help support the sustainability and growth of small businesses within Scotland.



The types and levels of training that are eligible for support are:



* Qualifications including individual units

* Masterclasses

* Learning based on National Occupational Standards

* Industry recognised qualifications

* First line supervisory management

* Workshops

* Taster sessions



Funding is available for up to 10 employees per business and the money is not a loan so there's no need to pay it back. Skills Development Scotland will refund up to 50% of each episode of employee training up to a maximum of £500.



For example, if an episode of training costs £1200, Skills Development Scotland will refund £500. If it costs £300, they will refund £150.



The first step is to check the website refer to guidelines and if applicable submit your application.