In-Comm Training, one of the expert training providers chosen to carry out the programme in the Black Country, supports more than 2,500 individuals every year to access apprenticeships and training to equip them with skills they can use to retrain and develop new careers.

The programme gives individuals the opportunity to complete Diplomas in Performing Manufacturing Operations, Engineering Operations and Business Improvement Techniques, all of which are fully funded and an accredited qualification taking twelve months to complete through off and on-the-job-training.

These sought-after qualifications can support those at risk either into continued employment with the existing employer or a new opportunity across the region.

There are other certified courses that cover a range of engineering or technical management disciplines, including introduction to metrology, reading engineering drawing, CNC programming and basic hydraulics and pneumatics – these can be taken over several days.

Bekki Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at In-Comm Training (pictured), commented: “We all know how difficult it has been during the pandemic and a lot of people have been made redundant or are at risk of losing their jobs.

“The Skills Support for Redundancy programme gives individuals access to dedicated training support that will allow them to gain new skills that will be attractive to employers and help make finding new jobs a lot easier.”

She continued: “Employees who have received a letter saying they are at risk of redundancy in the last three months can also apply for the scheme, so that they can use the opportunity to upskill, which will add more value to the business if they are able to retain them.”

In-Comm Training’s employer-led approach has seen it become one of the UK’s leading providers, delivering more than 750 Apprenticeships every year and thousands of upskilling courses.

More than £7 million has been invested in developing three world class technical academies in the Black Country and Shropshire, with learners getting access to the best trainers and advanced equipment, ranging from a dedicated metrology room and CNC machining zone to fluid power technology, 3D printing and extensive welding capabilities.

A wide range of funded training is also available for businesses to upskill existing staff through the Skills Support for Workforce programme. Both the Skills Support for Redundancy and Skills Support for the Workforce programmes are delivered by Serco and are co-financed by the Education & Skills Funding Agency and European Social Fund.

Bekki concluded: “As we emerge from the pandemic, there will be a lot of challenges and plenty of opportunities too. Companies and individuals will need to be as skilled as possible, and this support will help the Black Country adjust to the new way of working in the best way it can.”