SKILLS training has been given a £7 million boost. The extra Government cash is going to the Learning & Skills Council (LSC) for Kent and Medway to widen its Profit From Learning programme.

The scheme enables businesses to increase the skills of their workforce at basic and intermediate levels.

The training, which leads to approved qualifications, is provided free, usually at the employer's premises.

Tailored packages cover a wide range of areas, including manufacturing, retail, care, hospitality and catering.

KMLSC chairman Allan Chisholm said raising basic and intermediate skills was a top priority for the county.

"It's terrific to see such an excellent local response to our Profit From Learning programme," he said. "Businesses know that improving skills increases profitability and employees see direct benefits in learning new skills and achieving qualifications."

He added: "Employees can see that the training both helps them do their job better and opens up new opportunities."

More than 500 businesses in the county are already taking part the scheme, with more than 1,000 employees benefiting from the training.

The Kent and Medway scheme is one of 12 pilot projects in England and will be a trailblazer for similar schemes across the

South East.

Mark Haysom, national chief executive of the Learning & Skills Council, said: "The LSC is proud that the success and lessons learned from the

12 pilots have led to an extension of the programme. This allows the LSC to spread good practice to more areas and eventually the whole country."

More details on 0800 528 2000 or by visiting www.profitfromlearning.co.uk