Growth in sectors such as healthcare and nuclear manufacturing in the UK could be boosted by a new government-backed scheme to enhance skills in a range of industries.

Announced by business secretary Vince Cable, ministers have pledged their support to employer-led projects in order to meet potential talent shortages in seven expanding fields.

He explained that initial applications have been approved through the £50 million Growth and Innovation Fund in order to deliver training through a new National Skills Academy for Health and initiate schemes to increase skills in the playwork and fitness sectors, among others.

Dr Cable said: "This government wants business to lead the creation of a world class skills system. I'm pleased that employers have responded by coming forward with innovative ideas for the Growth and Innovation Fund."

The latest figures from the UK's Office for National Statistics suggested that there was a slight improvement in the employment market during the quarter to May 2011, with the number of people in jobs increasing by 0.1 per cent compared with the previous three months to 29.24 million.

Posted by Alex Donnell