As house prices fall and gas prices rise, there are further arguments for keeping training spend going during the economic storm. It's also apparent that the credit crunch could provide a temporary bonus for some.

In fact, there are growth areas around – as the world's fastest-growing profession, it's a case of: project managers - you're hired! And there isn't a complete clampdown on finances, as a new training fund has been launched.

Twenty-somethings are also in the news as research reveals training is the key to tackling Generation Y impatience and that graduate employers want more than just academic qualifications: soft skills are important for graduates.

Our favourite story this week is one from the construction industry – it might be feeling the pinch but there's also light on the training front as organisers reported a massive 300% increase in support for the new diploma.

These weren't the only stories we've covered this week. Go to also on TrainingZone.co.uk to see all our news and features.