The qualifications will cover laundry operations, laundry support services, drycleaning operations and drycleaning support services. They are aimed not only at workers directly employed in the industries but also at those employed in associated roles within hotels, prisons or hospital trusts.

The NVQs have been developed by Skillfast in response to employers’ concerns, and it was assisted by a working group including employers and representatives from the Guild of Cleaners and Launderers.

Skillfast is now working with awarding bodies, providers and employers to set up suitable courses.