A company has launched a new employee development programme to tackle the manufacturing skills shortage.

BEP Surface Technologies, an electroplating, metal finishing and coating business based in Radcliffe, has launched its "Be Better" scheme to help the personal and professional growth of employees.

The programme was developed in partnership with The HR Dept, a human resources consultancy, and aims to address the skills gap in the manufacturing sector.

The programme includes workshops on financial well-being, career development, and building positive habits.

It also aims to develop a behavioural competency framework, focusing on the "how" of employee behaviours, not just the "what" of task execution.

Jill Bottomley introducing the 'Be Better' programme to BEP Surface Technologies employeesJill Bottomley introducing the 'Be Better' programme to BEP Surface Technologies employees (Image: Supplied)

Andrew McClusky, managing director of BEP Surface Technologies, said: "For more than half a century, BEP has worked hard to remain at the leading edge of the surface engineering sector through our investment in people, processes, and products.

"But like the rest of the engineering and manufacturing sectors, recruiting and retaining skilled talent has been a battle.

"The 'Be Better' programme is a step forward in overcoming this challenge to maintaining our legacy.

"This programme aims to offer our valued team members a pathway to continuous personal and professional growth opportunities and for potential recruits to see the benefits of working for BEP.

"We aim to build a more dynamic, committed workforce, driving long-term sustained business success."

The programme is designed to be holistic and adaptable, tackling multiple aspects of personal and professional growth.

It promotes physical and mental well-being, offers guidance on career development, enhances financial literacy, fosters an inclusive culture, and emphasises "a commitment to environmental sustainability and workplace safety".

Employees can participate in areas that align with their personal and career aspirations.

Jill Bottomley, director of The HR Dept in Trafford and Warrington, said: "We aim to develop a sustainable strategy that supports the attraction, growth and retention of key talent within BEP.

"The programme has been developed based on data and inputs collected over several years to help identify and nurture emerging leaders.

"By understanding what drives each individual and focusing on their unique strengths, we build a more engaged and future-ready workforce."

The "Be Better" programme is part of BEP's commitment to "fostering local talent" through its apprenticeship programme, which spans various disciplines, from skilled machinists and maintenance teams to commercial and administrative roles.

Mr McClusky added: "While we love recruiting locally and building a real community feel to BEP, it is also our duty to ensure we have happy employees."