Member Article

OneDoor supports Tees Valley workforce during the recession

New research released by OneDoor, the higher-level training network in the Tees Valley, has shown over half of businesses are finding it difficult to focus on staff training and development during the recession - increasing concerns the downturn could dramatically slow opportunities for upskilling the Tees Valley workforce.

The research, conducted by the Department of Academic Enterprise at Teesside University, discovered that 57% of the 300+ respondents admitted to wanting to deliver staff training and development, but it wasn’t a financial priority during the recession.

Laura Woods, Director of Academic Enterprise at Teesside University said: “The results of this survey demonstrate that regional firms are keen to develop their workforce and prepare for potential future growth beyond the recession. However, as with so many decisions affecting businesses at the moment, financial considerations are taking priority.

“Most of the businesses questioned recognised the need to improve the skills of their workforce to safeguard future growth and ride out the recession. In response to the findings, we would advise businesses and individuals to utilise networks such as OneDoor to prepare for a more positive future for the local economy.”

OneDoor, a partnership between Teesside University and five further education colleges was recently launched to provide a helping hand for businesses and individuals looking to access higher-level training, innovation support, business mentoring, careers guidance and financial subsidies. The network can provide businesses with funds of up to £10,000 and individuals with up to £500, to help meet the financial costs of training and innovation.

Laura added: “OneDoor was established in conjunction with One North East and Business & Enterprise North East (BE-NE) to safeguard the continued development of the local workforce. We are confident that through sustained innovation and support we can help the people and businesses of the Tees Valley ride out the economic storm and prepare for the many opportunities that lie ahead.”

OneDoor is a partnership between Teesside University, Redcar and Cleveland College, Darlington College, Stockton Riverside College, Hartlepool FE College and Middlesbrough College.

For more information, get in touch with OneDoor at www.onedoor.co.uk or on 0845 463 0101.

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