Are local councils in the North doing enough to upskill everyone who can benefit? A lot is available, let’s make sure we are signposting our teams, friends and neighbours and utilising these opportunities ourselves to boost productivity and innovation for all!
The North of Tyne Combined Authority Digital Skills Project (Digital Skills for Growth/ Digital Skills Bootcamps):
Enables both employers and employees to access courses to enhance digital skills. Fully funded for eligible employed residents based in Northumberland, North Tyneside and Newcastle. Now funded from the North East Combined Authority and partnered with the University of Sunderland.
Addresses specific skills gaps identified by employers in disciplines which could include:
- Digital Marketing and Digital Design
- Website Design and Development
- Software and Programming
- Networking Systems
- Data Analysis
- Customer Relationship Management Software
- Machining and Manufacturing Technology
Get Online Greater Manchester: Digital Skills Map
Manchester is known for being slightly ahead of the curve with regards to digital skills initiatives. With recent data showing 806,500 of residents in Greater are digitally excluded in some form, Greater Manchester Combined Authority has designed a Digital Skills Map as part of Get Online Greater Manchester. It identifies where residents can go to find support in digital skills training as well as accessing devices and connectivity.
Birmingham: The Birmingham Adult Education Service
The Birmingham Adult Education Service provides Essential Digital Skills accredited courses free of charge, offering several qualifications.
100% Digital Leeds: Leeds Adult Learning
The 100% Digital Leeds programme’s vision is for everyone in Leeds to have equal opportunity to use digital tools, technology, and services in the right way for them. Leeds Adult Learning offers a range of courses for adults, including digital and IT courses, which take place across the city, though most are delivered virtually. Many courses are free.
Sheffield: The Sheffield College
The Sheffield College offers a range of adult courses of different levels for free, supported by the National Skills Fund.
Liverpool: Skills Bootcamps for the Workplace
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority provides opportunities to boost digital skills including Skills Bootcamps for the Workplace, through which Liverpool City Region residents and employers are eligible for a range of digital courses.
If your region isn't listed, delve deeper and explore what you can uncover; as many local authorities will have resources for you to take part in!
Learn more about Digital Skills from public sector experts at DigiGov North - a key event for public sector tech peers to unite to uncover what the North has to offer. Find out more.
Eloise Smith
Conference Producer, GovNet Tech Portfolio
