TUC deputy general calls for more access to learning

Learning and skills organisation Unionlearn has condemned recent statistics which shows that 41 per cent of UK employers did not train their staff in 2011.

The research from the UK commission for employment and skills also shows that 46 per cent of employees received no training at all last year.

Trade Union Congress' deputy general secretary, Frances O'Grady has called on employers to ensure that those from minorities and the disadvantaged in particular, don't miss out on training opportunities.

Grady highlighted the fact that it is often the most qualified employees at the top end of the scale who access training opportunities and has called for employers to make sure that those who needed training were able to access it.

"Thirteen people missing out on training represents a massive loss to the economy, in terms of skills and productivity," she said.

"It seems that the lion's share of development opportunities has gone too high-flyers and far too many ordinary workers have missed out - for example, part-time workers, carers, older workers and disabled workers.

"Access to learning is an equality issue, and the barriers to learning people face go a long way to explaining why the country remains such an unequal place. Regardless of age, race, gender, class, sexuality or any disability, each and every worker should enjoy an equal chance to refresh their skills or learn something new at work.

"Unlock the talents and skills of your workforce, let them learn and you will be repaid by increased motivation, retention rates and lower sickness levels, not to mention a better skilled workforce.  So I am calling upon each and every employer to make sure that each and every one of their workers has an opportunity to learn."

For more information on the report, visit http://www.ukces.org.uk/assets/bispartners/ukces/docs/publications/uk-ess-first-findings-2011-amended-22-dec.pdf