Evaluation of the Workforce Development Programme

The WDP funded the activities of a network of Workforce Development Advisors to help businesses in Wales review their staff development activities and to identify training needs. The WDP also included a discretionary fund which financially supported companies with the cost of training their staff.

Main findings

• The WDP had succeeded in engaging with a wide range of businesses across a number of sectors and throughout different parts of Wales. The programme supported 4,315 businesses between April 2011 and March 2015 and performed solidly against its key performance indicators. 
• The evaluation found that WDP training added value to and led to a range of positive impacts on supported businesses. The evaluation also found evidence of positive outcomes for trainees in relation to willingness to participate and preparedness to take responsibility.
• The evaluation report makes a series of five recommendations in relation to the design and implementation of future programmes.