ABSTRACT
Organisations sometimes view training as a short-term gain or 'quick fix' solution to complex issues. Investment in training and developing the workforce is a long-term strategy that, over time, ensures a higher quality of care and better motivated staff. Training significantly contributes to a well managed service, especially in terms of good practice and policy development. Public services often follow the pattern of private industries in promoting their services by achieving nationally agreed measures and standards of good quality - for example, Investors in People, Charter Marks and training awards. The notion of competence is central to the National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) framework. Within companies, NVQs are being encouraged on the basis that they can improve business performance by bringing a more focused attitude to training to meet business objectives. The establishment of the Joint Service in April 1994 allowed for greater flexibility and richness in the provision of training across the service.
