Bristol firms can ensure they are fit for the future by taking advantage of free support on offer under a Workforce for the Future programme.
Staged by Business West, the region’s largest business organisation, Workforce for the Future provides fully funded, tailored and in-depth support for firms with fewer than 250 employees to make sure they have the access to the training and support that they need to thrive. 
Businesses will receive support from Business West’s experienced business skills advisors to ensure they can identify ongoing skills needs, attract and retain talented people, access the right training and development and invest in their current and future workforce.
The programme has already helped a number of Bristol businesses, including podcast agency Digital Bulls, whose director Matt Allen said: “My business is growing because of the support and opportunities I’ve had via the programme, and I’ve already recommended it to others.”
Business West head of skills delivery Lizzie Lyons, who leads the programme, said: “Workforce development planning is essential for small businesses of all sizes from any sector because it helps to analyse the skills of their current workforce and map this against the skills they require now and in the future.
“Our excellent team of business skills advisors will support businesses to identify any skills gaps and find suitable solutions, which could include programmes of training and development or alternative employment routes such as work placements and apprenticeships.”
Business West is delivering Workforce for the Future on behalf of the West of England Combined Authority in collaboration with other regional partners.
Businesses can get in touch with the team for one-to-one support by visiting the Business West website https://www.businesswest.co.uk/workforce-development-planning
Spaces are also available at an online workshop on 10 January that will help businesses understand how workforce planning is vital for growing your business. Click here for further details
For more information on Workforce for the Future, visit the West of England Growth Hub. The hub is the West of England Combined Authority’s dedicated business support service, offering free, one-to-one advice and guidance for SMEs.
