A study examined current developments in workplace adult basic skills training (BST) programs for adults in northwestern England. Case studies of three area companies offering workplace BST programs were conducted along with a telephone survey of 56 local employers (of 200 originally contacted) to gauge their awareness of and attitudes toward workplace BST and their perceptions of their companies' need for such training. Most employers were not currently providing BST, and most were unaware of the few BST programs that do exist. Only 4-12% of those interviewed perceived BST as yielding specific benefits to employers and employees, whereas up to 44% cited various barriers to BST. The case studies revealed additional barriers. Recommendations for facilitating BST development included the following: publicizing the benefits of BST; encouraging universal access to BST; increasing coordination among/commitment from employers, training providers, and trade unions; ensuring confidentiality; creating favorable learning environments; developing appropriate curricula; providing opportunities for progression; and monitoring program quality. (Contains 115 references. Appended are national education attainment targets; a schedule of the case study interviews, visits, and consultations; aims and objectives of the work-based training needs analysis; and the employer survey instrument and related documents.) (MN)