People and communities in South Gloucestershire most in need are set to benefit from new funding to boost skills and help businesses grow.
The cash boost follows a successful bid coordinated by the West of England Combined Authority. Pop-up hubs will be set up in vacant retail units in High Streets and shopping centres to provide training and development opportunities. Employment Support Coaches, based in the hubs will work with businesses, training providers and other agencies to improve access to a wide range of training courses including IT skills, Maths and English, Food Hygiene and Employability skills.
The support workers will also work with organisations and businesses to provide apprenticeship schemes and support local candidates to secure apprenticeships.
Chief Executive for the West of England Patricia Greer said: “It’s essential that we provide people in our most disadvantaged communities with the right skills that employers need and make it easier for them to access jobs. This cash means easier access to training and apprenticeship opportunities in the heart of these communities.”
The programme is funded from the government’s UK Community Recovery Fund (UKCRF) and will be delivered by South Gloucestershire Council. It will improve access to training for those who face employment barriers; reskill the over 50’s; and help small and medium sized businesses grow their ideas and develop their products and services.
A proportion of the funding will be earmarked for developing green skills including the introduction of two Biodiversity Apprentices at South Gloucestershire Council.
Small and medium businesses will also benefit with special events to help them develop their ideas and grow.
