The state’s Employment Security Department has awarded $8.1 million to the Workforce Development Council of Seattle/King County to help workers upgrade their skills and qualify for better jobs.

The funding is for the July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010, fiscal year. The region’s allocation decreased by about $1.4 million compared to last year due to federal budget cuts.

The council oversees the design and delivery of work-related training services for businesses and workers in King County and services are delivered through local WorkSource centers.

The money must be used to assist laid-off workers, low-income adults and low-income or disadvantaged young people. Services include counseling, skill assessments, job-search assistance, training and job referrals.

“In this tough economy, it’s more important than ever to help workers gain the skills to compete in their local job market,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “These grants give workers a chance at a better job and a stable future for their families.”

The funding comes from the federal Department of Labor through the Workforce Investment Act. Employment Security will distribute some $42 million this year to the state’s 12 workforce development areas based on their population, unemployment levels and the number of disadvantaged people.

Due to federal budget cuts, the state is receiving about $7 million less this year than last year.

Individuals who need help finding a job or obtaining training should visit their nearest WorkSource career center. Locations are listed at go2worksource.com.

WorkSource is a partnership of Employment Security, other state agencies, local governments, colleges and nonprofit organizations that work together to provide free employment and training services to job seekers and employers. More than 270,000 people in Washington received assistance from WorkSource in 2008.