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Delivered by a range of training providers, the ‘Business Improvement Programme’, with cash from the National Transition Training Fund and

Skills Development Scotland, will provide bespoke training packages to companies to help support their objectives. Free webinars and funded courses will be available to meet business and team needs and strategic goals.

Companies will have access to more than 60 courses covering four key training areas: Upskilling and multiskilling staff - training for employees and teams; career recruitment and retention toolkits for businesses - helping to develop recruitment and retention policies; process automation and business implications; Women in Seafood in Scotland.

The programme will be delivered to staff members over the age of 25, using flexible methods, such as self-taught online modules and guided virtual sessions. Courses range from fish frying, knife skills and monger training to customer and human resource services, as well as guidance on business planning and strategy.

The National Transition Training Fund was launched in 2020 by Skills Development Scotland following the rise in unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme aims to give individuals the opportunity to gain industry recognised qualifications to support with employment.

Donna Fordyce, Seafood Scotland chief executive, said: “It’s important that the businesses in our onshore seafood sector continue to grow and this funding can help them do just that. With the support received from the National Transition Training Fund and Skills Development Scotland, we will help companies plan their training opportunities and the courses available to them in line with their business objectives.

“The window for this funding is open until March and I would strongly encourage any onshore seafood businesses to take up this great opportunity.”