The Hospitality and Tourism Skills (HATS) network has launched a guide on funded skills support available to help hospitality and tourism businesses retain talent through this difficult time and develop the skills needed for the future.

Developed in partnership with the Department for the Economy and Invest NI, the guide outlines the funded support programmes available from local colleges, Invest NI and Ulster University plus provides links to online training courses and mental health and wellbeing support.

HATS Network chair, Ciaran O’Neill from Bishop’s Gate Hotel in Derry-Londonderry and a former NI Hotels Federation (NIHF) president comments:

“As the industry builds back from the disruption caused by Covid-19 we need to inspire future generations to enter the industry – and those that are already in the industry, to stay. There are support packages available now to help businesses invest in talent to emerge stronger from the crisis and help them flourish. The new guide is an excellent resource that will be hugely beneficial in giving clarity to many businesses in these difficult trading conditions.”

Roisin McKee, Project Director for the HATS Network and Director of Northern Ireland for People 1st International adds:

“We have a unique opportunity to reset the status quo when it comes to skills and professional development. Building back with a better skilled workforce will provide the much-needed reinforcement to deliver a tourism product that attracts visitors and encourages repeat business.”

Act now and benefit from funded skills support to invest in talent and help your business emerge stronger from the crisis. Access the skills funding guide here.