£5.6m workforce training programme launched

Thousands of businesses and employees across Lancashire are set to benefit from free workforce training after Lancashire County Council launched a new £5.6m programme which will be delivered by some of the county’s leading training providers.

Businesses qualifying for the £5.6m scheme will receive a free training needs analysis. Eligible employees within the business can then access free accredited training from leading providers based on their skills requirements.

Whilst all small or medium enterprises are eligible to apply, the programme, which is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and aligned to the growth ambitions of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP), is particularly keen to attract businesses in the following growth sectors:

• Aerospace
• Advanced engineering & manufacturing
• Energy, environment and low carbon
• Financial and professional services
• Creative and digital
• Leisure, tourism and visitor economy
• Health occupations
• Professional, scientific and technical occupations

County councillor Jennifer Mein, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “We've already seen with Boost Business Lancashire that there is an appetite for growth among the county's businesses. For growth to be achieved, our businesses need access to a highly-trained and motivated workforce.

The LSS delivery partnership currently comprises Accrington and Rossendale College, Age UK Lancashire, Blackburn College, Blackpool and the Fylde College, Burnley College, Joint Learning, Lancashire Adult Learning, Lancaster and Morecambe College, Myerscough College, Nelson and Colne College, Preston's College, West Lancashire College, and VIA Partnership.

The fund operates across the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area, which consists of Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen local authorities. Businesses looking to benefit from the programme can find further information and apply through a new website www.lancashireskillssupport.co.uk.