Businesses 'focus on CSR'There has been an increase in companies wishing to fulfil their corporate social responsibility (CSR) targets.

A spokesperson for The Prince’s Trust said the group works closely with its corporate partners to give their employees the chance to develop their skills and experience, in addition to meeting CSR goals.

"We have recently seen an increase in companies working with us in this way," they added.

The comments come after the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development released its 2010 Learning and Development Survey, which revealed UK learning and development professionals are continuing to offer business focused training, despite budgets being radically cut.

According to the trust spokesperson, more than ever before, even entry-level jobs require qualifications.

This month, the government announced that for the first time, UK employees will now have the right to request time off from work for further study or training.

Skills minister Kevin Brennan said the initiative has been designed to empower Britons to speak about the benefits training can bring to the success of a business.

Posted by Hayley Edwards