BUSINESSES in York and North Yorkshire will be shown a way through the jobs skills crisis in the region.

A conference aimed at showing businesses how they can solve their skill shortages through employing a cross-section of people will be held in York on Friday.

It comes as one of the biggestever employers' survey showed that more than a fifth of all job vacancies remain unfilled because of a lack of skills.

The free half-day event is being organised at the Royal York Hotel by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) North Yorkshire, which commissioned more than 1,100 interviews with local employers across all sectors last year.

The conference, which starts at 9.30am, will showcase national companies like B&Q, which has successfully strengthened its workforce by targeting older employers.

Their wealth of knowledge in gardening, decorating and general DIY is of enormous benefit in customer service.

David Harbourne, executive director of the LSC North Yorkshire, said he is "determined that this event will be both enjoyable and informative".

Mr Harbourne added: "Successive governments have passed laws to promote equality and diversity. The risk is that this might send out only a negative message - if you don't comply with the legislation, you might have to pay fines or compensation.

"I am much more interested in the positive message which is that employing a cross-section of people really can bring benefits to your business.

Elly Fiorentini, from BBC Radio York, will chair a "question time" session with guest speakers, giving delegates the opportunity to find out the secrets of their success.

There will also be the chance to join in two short, sharp workshops to hear more about what is happening in York and North Yorkshire, and how businesses can tap into further help and advice.

The event is aimed at businesses and organisations with more than 50 employees, members of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and companies with or working towards the Investors In People standard.

For further details, phone event manager Lisa Garlick, at Apricot Events, on 0870 766 4041

Updated: 16:44 Tuesday, March 16, 2004