The Improve Award for Skills

The winner was;

 Patak's Foods, Leigh, Greater Manachester.

Patak's employ around 650 people at their manufacturing sites and recognise that the skill levels of all these individuals is a key factor in their continued success. Through a company training plan, developed and overseen by the HR department, all employees learn the essential skills required by the food & drink manufacturing sector, i.e Food Safety, Health and Safety and Manual Handling.

Patak's also drive forward the upskilling of their staff through attainment of NVQ Level Two in Performing Food and Drink Manufacturing Operations and have recently taken their work force development  to a new level. Following discussions with Improve on the Sector Skills Agreement, they have commenced a pilot project into the use of a Skills Passport, 'Green Card' at the Leigh site.