THE OWNER of an Evesham business has received a £1,000 boost after taking part in a skills survey run by Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils.
Jessica Reed, owner of party supplies business Vale Balloons, was one of 665 businesses to complete the survey, which aimed to find out the skills and training needs of companies across the two districts.
All of those businesses were then entered into a prize draw, with Vale Balloons chosen as the lucky winner.
Coun Richard Morris, Executive Board Member for Economic Growth and Tourism on Wychavon District Council, visited Vale Balloons last week to congratulate Jessica on her success.
The survey was carried out as part of the Malvern Hills and Wychavon Upskilling Project, which has received funding of £283,050 from the UK Government Renewal Fund, managed by Worcestershire County Council.
The results of the survey will help guide both district councils in providing targeted support to businesses, including future subsidised courses to meet their needs, help with recruitment and filling the skills gap.
Jessica Reed, the owner of Vale Balloons, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I found out we’d won. Like many businesses, the last couple of years have been tough at times, but we’re pleased to see lots more parties and events on the horizon and this prize will be a real help as we plan ahead.”
Coun Morris said: “It’s great to be able to support local businesses in any way we can and I’d like to congratulate Jess on winning the prize draw. It’s always good to meet our entrepreneurial businesses and Vale Balloons typify that with their preparations for the Platinum Jubilee.
“Receiving so many responses to the survey was a promising start to the Upskilling Project, which will make a long-term difference to our economy and workforce.”
As part of the Upskilling Project, financial support is available to businesses and trainees or apprentices.
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/business for more.
