The Skills Pledge commits employers to ensure all staff get qualifications equivalent to five good GCSEs. The idea is to help staff improve their confidence and skills as council employees and enhance their career prospects.

It will mean more support for staff who want help with basic literacy and numeracy. Those without the equivalent of five A-C grade GCSEs are being encouraged to work towards NVQ Level 2 qualifications in subjects relevant to their work.

The council is setting a good example for business throughout the city to follow this lead.

There is not cost involved in signing up to the Pledge and it is usually combined with a visit from a skills adviser. The Sector Skills Councils are keen to promote the concept widely as part of the Government's aim to increase skills levels throughout the country.

For more information contact Learning and Skills South East on 01273 783555