Training programme for a new career as Mayor tries to address London skills shortage

By Joe Talora, Local Democracy Reporter

Londoners who are unemployed or on low incomes are to be offered free skills training as part of a new programme launched by Sadiq Khan.

The Mayor of London announced on Monday that he is launching the Mayor’s Academies Programme which will provide training courses to anyone aged 19 or over who is in low-income work or is unemployed.

It comes as new figures reveal that London’s unemployment rate is declining, but there are a growing number of businesses that are reporting problems with filling skilled roles.

The new £44 million scheme from Sadiq Khan will see training courses rolled out across colleges and adult education providers in London with a particular focus on skills training for green jobs and jobs in the digital, hospitality, creative and cultural, and social care sectors.

Sadiq Khan has said that the scheme will allow Londoners to “acquire the skills that either allow them to earn more in their current roles or secure better-paying jobs”.

He said: “My new flagship skills programme will offer any Londoner who is 19 or over – and who is unemployed or in a low paid job – the chance to access training for free.

“London’s economy is starting to show signs of recovery, but many businesses are crying out for people with the right skills.

This new programme will not only ensure Londoners can gain the skills they need to succeed, but support London’s businesses and our economic recovery.”

From Monday, TfL will launch a campaign to raise awareness of the various adult education opportunities available in London.

Posters across the capital’s transport network will encourage Londoners to take up the free skills training available across various sectors, while education providers will advertise opportunities across social media.