As of the 26th March 2001, Training and Enterprise Councils (TECs) are effectively being replaced by the Learning and Skills Council.

Effectively, but not quite.

As far as Investors in People is concerned, for example, the Learning and Skills Council (through its local arms) takes over responsibility for all public bodies, charities and commercial organisations employing over 250 people.

The responsibility for commercial organisations employing less than 250 people (classed as SMEs - small and medium-sized enterprises) now rests with the Small Business Service.

The Small Business Service (SBS) has been set up to replace the Business Links, with the specific brief of helping make the UK the best place in the world to start and grow a business. Its stated purpose is to help build an enterprise society in which small businesses can thrive and achieve their potential.

But the Business Links have not gone altogether. The work of the SBS is conducted through a network of local Business Link offices.

So, if you want to go for Investors in People, or if you want to apply for support of any kind (for training, consultancy, etc., etc.) and you are part of a commercial organisation (private or public limited company, partnership, sole trader) that employs less than 250 people, talk to your local Business Link office.

Anyone else, talk to your local arm of the Learning and Skills Council.

For more information, see our Links page or check out these web sites.

March 2001