Improve training, business told

BUSINESSES which invest in their staff and promote training programmes stand a greater chance of improving turnover and profits, a leading Suffolk business group says.

Business Link for Suffolk is encouraging firms to enhance training schemes for staff by achieving Investors in People status and it says the organisations that achieve the benchmark stand to enjoy healthier balance sheets.

The call coincides with the announcement today that an Ipswich roofing company has been recognised for its investment in staff.

Steve White Industrial Roofing, of Larchcroft Road, was awarded Investors in People status after it successfully met industry benchmark standards of developing employee skills and valuing its staff.

The award follows a partnership between Business Link for Suffolk and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to improve training standards in the county.

"The CITB are very keen for member companies to take part in Investors in People because they want to increase skills and management quality throughout the industry," said Chris Phasey of Business Link for Suffolk.

"In addition, companies that work with Investors in People often find that it helps them to achieve their business objectives such as increasing turnover and profit."

Marian White of Steve White Industrial Roofing believes that one of the principal benefits the firm has gained from Investors in People has been the recognition and credibility it has given them.

"Being able to display the Investors in People award tells potential clients that we are prepared to invest in our staff and take issues like health and safety seriously," Mrs White, the company's office manager, said.

"I think this gives clients confidence that they are dealing with a reputable company."

Weblink: www.bls.org.uk

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