Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 20
20
Paragraph: 107
In written evidence, DWP said that it intends to expand its skills offer.
Recommendation
In written evidence, DWP said that it intends to expand its skills offer. In response to this report, it should set out its plans in detail. In particular, it should explain how its offer will focus on the skills for which there is increased demand, particularly digital and AI skills. It should ensure that its offer is not just aimed at people who are in the early stages of their career, but at older workers who may also want or need to retrain.
Paragraph Reference:
107
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Skills Offer is jointly pursued across government. DfE in England and Devolved Administrations in Scotland and Wales lead on funding and commissioning the training offer, and DWP plays a critical role in actively influencing that offer and creating access to training for DWP customers. DWP is expanding its skills offer to identify and act on skills needs matched to local employer demand. In addition, DWP engages actively with relevant organisations and structures (including directly with employers, DfE and the Skills Advisory Panels) to understand demand, shape the training offer and ensure DWP customers have access to training that relates to current and emerging job vacancies. The DWP Train and Progress initiative is a key means through which this alignment of demand and supply of skills can be achieved. The aim of DWP Train and Progress is to understand how to better meet demand in the labour market, addressing any gaps in skills and potential barriers to accessing non-contracted provision. There will be a particular focus on those claimants with low attainment in English, aths and digital skills, those in lower paid work and those with a need to retrain. This offer will be made to people of all ages, including older workers.