WIREDGOV

ProAct is the Welsh Assembly Government’s flagship training scheme aimed at helping viable companies who are facing difficulties during the economic downturn by providing funding to upgrade training for employees.

Employers can receive up to £2,000 per individual for training, and, in theory, up to a further £2,000 per employee for a wage subsidy whilst that training is being undertaken.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said:

"This is a positive development for Corus and some of their staff who have faced uncertain futures. Accessing ProAct financial support enables employees to gain additional qualifications. ProAct is gaining international recognition with more companies applying and accessing funding to upgrade their employees’ skills.

"We’ve said from the beginning that during difficult economic times it’s imperative for the Welsh workforce that their companies don’t just survive the present recession but are also fully prepared to be competitive when the economy gets into recovery mode. The Assembly Government is working closely with Corus, as a significant employer in Wales to ensure it has a strong future in our economy."

CSP UK’s Managing Director, Uday Chaturvedi said:

"The impact of the economic downturn has been very severe in our industry. We have been determined to retain valuable skills. With the assistance of the Welsh Assembly Government we are taking advantage of the opportunity to improve steel employees’ working skills."

David Ferris, Chair of the Multi-Union at Port Talbot steelworks, said,

"Unique to Wales, the ProAct scheme is set to benefit a large number of the workforce – protecting their jobs, and further improving their employability."

Deputy Minister for Skills John Griffiths said:

"We are committed to supporting businesses and communities in all sectors throughout Wales. ProAct support has been offered to 129 companies providing around £17.3m of funding supporting around 7,000 people.

"It is crucial that as many people as possible are engaged in the labour market, taking up training opportunities to ensure that Wales has a vibrant and successful economic future."

Related Links

ProAct – funding to up-skill staff affected by short-term working

ProAct is a financial support package designed to help viable businesses cope with the downturn.