Training has always been a tough issue for small businesses, as it is expensive and time consuming – but can also bring the benefits of new and improved skills to your employees and thus your business.

A survey by HSBC and the independent Small Business Research Trust (SBRT) indicates that 70% of small businesses are not aware of the training role of the Sector Skills Councils or the Train2Gain scheme which are supported by government funding.

As well as a lack of awareness regarding government training initiatives, the survey also indicated that smaller businesses were less likely to offer internal or external training, with only 40% of micro companies, 69% of small companies and 87% of medium-sized companies providing formal training.

The Chairman of SBRT, Brian Wolfe stated: “There must be serious concern that such a small proportion of small businesses seem to be aware of the opportunities for training provision now being backed by significant government funding through Train2Gain and other initiatives. There is a real danger that larger businesses, with the infrastructure to access such provision, will reap most of the benefit – leaving small business requirements unrecognised”.

To find out more about the Train2Gain scheme, click here to visit the site.