RESTAURANT owner Paul Heathcote is urging businesses to show their commitment to staff training by signing the Skills Pledge.

Mr Heathcote, whose restaurants include Simply Heathcotes and the popular Olive Press, in Castle Street, has himself joined the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) initiative.

The LSC wants companies to make a public commitment to training, and says firms that invest in their staff will be well-placed to survive the recession.

Mr Heathcote said: “I have been an advocate of training my staff since day one, and it is great that there are now so many opportunities and so much support for businesses through the LSC. Heathcote staff receive training across the board, from front-of-house personnel to the chefs, and I make sure that everyone can benefit.

“Particularly with the economy as it is, it is crucial that we do all we can to help our workforces and our businesses to ride the storm and come out successful in the end.”

Helen France, of the LSC, said: “Research shows that businesses that do not train their workforce are 2½ times more likely to fail during a recession.

“By making the pledge, an employer demonstrates their commitment to their staff, and signals their recognition of the value of training.”

For more information about making the Skills Pledge for your business, visit www.allmerseyside.net or call 0845 00 66 888.