Research by sector skills council People 1st has found 60% of the leisure, hospitality, travel and tourism industries believe more skilled workers are needed if the UK is to host the Olympics in 2012.
The International Olympic Committee arrived in the UK today to evaluate London’s suitability to host the event.
The survey conducted among employers, trade associations, colleges and government organisations in the leisure, hospitality, travel and tourism industries, found:
– 73% of respondents to the survey want the government to ensure employers know what training courses and qualifications are available for staff
– 70% want the training and qualifications system to be easier to understand
– 60% believe more skilled workers are needed.
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Brian Wisdom, chief executive officer of People 1st, said that with seven years to go, the UK had the capability to host the Olympics, but really needed to look at the skills issue now if it is to succeed.
“What employers need is the right people, with the right skills at the right time,” he said. “There’s a responsibility on business to invest in training, but equally we need to ensure qualifications and training are matched to employers’ needs.”
