Networking event aims to help businesses improve services to staff

Oct 29 2009 by Debbie Hall, West Lothian Courier

NEARLY 50 members of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce attended a networking event sponsored by West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network (FIN) at the Hilcroft Hotel recently.

The theme of the evening was centred around helping businesses to have better trained, educated and better-off staff.

Councillor Isabel Hutton, chair of FIN introduced the member organisations who had come along to explain what services were on offer to help employers

Skills Development Scotland had information and advice regarding Individual Learning Accounts where people can receive up to £200 to help pay for courses.

West Lothian Credit Union Forum let the members know about payroll deduction, savings and other financial services for employees and employers

Staff from West Lothian Council Advice Shop showed how staff could be better off financially by making use of tax credits while West Lothian Adult Basic Education were on hand to advise on help with basic skills.

Blackburn Local Employment Scheme staff were also on hand at the get together to explained ways in which they could make it easier for members employ young people by using their services

Dave McDougall, chief executive of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce said it was a worthwhile meeting adding: “Chamber members have found this evening very informative and I’m sure it will enable them to help their staff develop.

“We are already looking forward to similar events in the future.”