POOR basic skills in both numeracy and literacy are having a detrimental impact on the economic performance of the county's businesses, according to Learinvicta, the Kent branch of Learndirect.

Garrie Owens, chief executive, said: "Many company bosses may not realise how productivity and, ultimately, profitability are affected by a proportion of the workforce whose basic skills fall below the national average.

"In some areas of the county, more than 35 per cent of the adult population has not achieved any qualification, and in others 25 per cent have a reading ability of less than the age of 11.

"Many companies may not like to admit this is a problem, but evidence shows itself in poor staff retention, absenteeism and product losses due to basic errors made in numeracy and literacy."

A workshop is being held on May 12 to help company directors identify the benefits to be gained by examining aspects of workforce skill levels.

It will be led by Nick Rowell, who is well-known for courses in business planning, finance for non-financial managers and human resources for clients such as Business Link and the Institute of Directors.

Places are limited and cost £50 plus VAT with refreshments provided. For more information please call 01795 411595.