A government training scheme is being rolled out nationally this month.

Train to Gain, managed and delivered by the Learning and Skills Council, offers employers access to a free skills broker service. The scheme is expected to help 50,000 employers and 350,000 employees each year.

Olympic rower James Cracknell joined ministers including the parliamentary under secretary of state for skills, Phil Hope, at the launch of the scheme in London this week.

Learning and Skills Council director David Way said: "Now all employers have a chance to define the skills and training needed and address skills shortages using the help and guidance of a specialist advisor."
For more information visit www.traintogain.gov.uk.