IQ Endoscopes, a Chepstow-based medical technology company, has been leading the way in the healthcare sector with its innovative flexible endoscopes.
While preparing to launch their product in the UK market, the company has focused on developing its workforce through the Flexible Skills Programme, ensuring that their staff are fully qualified ahead of launch. Businesses in Wales can receive up to 50% funding towards training costs through this Welsh Government funded programme.
IQ Endoscopes have benefitted. Gemma Banks, HR Manager at IQ Endoscopes, said:
“As a small business, we have greatly benefited from the financial support provided by the Welsh Government through the Flexible Skills Programme. This support has been crucial in addressing skills gaps in medical engineering and health and safety as we transition from a startup to a commercially ready business.
“Since its inception four years ago, IQ Endoscopes has come a long way from what began as a simple idea to improve endoscopy provision, to the business it is today.”
Gemma continued:
“Our team has grown from four to 30 staff members, and with this growth, we have wanted to ensure we have the right skills in place. We have employed specialists and upskilled existing staff to fill skills gaps.
“This is where the Flexible Skills Programme came in across various areas within the business, offering additional training to existing colleagues.
“For instance, we recognised the need to improve health and safety in our lab environment. Through the programme, we provided our lab technician, with technical training and a qualification. This training boosted his confidence and enabled him to implement new strategies, making the lab a safer place.”
The Flexible Skills Programme has been instrumental in IQ Endoscopes’ business growth.
Gemma continued:
“The funding has helped us to provide staff with the required skills allowing us to develop our workforce and grow.
“The programme has been invaluable for staff retention and embodies our core value of empowerment. We want our staff to feel in control of their roles, and by offering opportunities to build their expertise and confidence, we see real value in their work.”
Gemma concluded:
“Business Wales has been incredibly supportive in finding training that suits our business needs. As a startup, we constantly adapt to meet business requirements, and this programme has facilitated that.
“If you’re a start-up or a small business in Wales, I highly recommend reaching out. It’s a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for staff development. Even an initial conversation can get the ball rolling.”
Watch IQ Endoscopes outline the support they've received from the Flexible Skills Programme:
For more information on the Flexible Skills Programme, visit Business Wales https://businesswales.gov.wales/topics-and-guidance/employing-people-and-improving-skills/recruit-and-train/flexible-skills-programme.
Business Wales is funded by Welsh Government. For more information and support to help your business discover opportunities, and to speak to a specialist advisor, contact Business Wales. Visit www.businesswales.gov.wales/ or call 03000 6 03000. Rydym yn croesawu galwadau’n Gymraeg – we welcome calls in Welsh.
