Member Article

Cost of training putting people off

Nearly 50 per cent of adults in the North East would like to learn new skills but a lack of money is proving a barrier, according to the Learning and Skills Council.

The findings, published to coincide with Adult Learners Week, revealed that 46 per cent of people in the North East would definitely like to learn in the future. But for 28 per cent, the cost of training is holding them back.

The Learning and Skills Council is urging people to look into the Adult Learning Grant as a way of overcoming the financial barriers. The grant can provide up to £30 a week to help with the extra costs of learning.

Since the national roll-out in September 2007, 1,437 people in the North East have received ALG support.

Financial expert Sue Hayward, said: “Improving your skills set is a proven way to increase employability and in turn increase earnings, with ALG available to support any expenses. Adult Learners’ Week is the perfect opportunity for everyone to think seriously about the benefits of going back to learning and explore the financial grants available to them.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .