The UK's smallest firms need government training schemes to be more flexible and focused on their needs, according to a poll by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The survey revealed that 88% of micro-firms (those with fewer than five employees) have not taken up the offer of training through the government's Train to Gain scheme.

78% of respondents stated that the scheme needed to be more flexible and identified the need for training on issues specific to the smallest firms, including leadership and management for businesses with fewer than five employees.

"The Government must start to recognise the needs of the country's smallest businesses, especially during this crucial time when firms need to be investing in skills and training so that they can emerge stronger as they pull the economy out of recession," said Colin Willman, FSB Education and Skills Chairman.