A scheme to nurture talent in the automotive sector has seen a major take-up since its launch earlier this year.

The Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) SkillMiles scheme was established in February.

Anybody working to improve staff skills and attract new talent is eligible for SkillMiles points, with companies and individuals accumulating points for their contribution to areas including learning, leadership, management and recruitment.

Efforts are judged via a tiered system, ensuring contributions from large and small organisations are weighted fairly, with the IMI awarding bronze, silver, gold and platinum accreditations.

In the past six months, more than 100 businesses and another 100 individuals have signed up to the initiative.

More than 30,000 SkillMiles have been awarded for activities such as participation in staff working groups and arranging vehicle loans.

Steve Nash, aftersales director, BMW Group UK and chairman of the IMI executive board, said: “The SkillMiles scheme provides a meaningful way of acknowledging efforts and paying tribute to those who are actively making a difference to the industry through their work and commitment to improving performance, many of whom are unsung heroes.”

Among the companies already registered are Delphi Automotive, Fleet Auction Group, Lloyds TSB Autolease and Thatcham.