Burton MP Kate Griffiths has spoken of the need to reduce the existing skills gap in the town as the Government doubles down on its levelling-up agenda.
In a debate on the recent Queen’s Speech, which set out the Government’s plans for the coming year, the local MP highlighted the importance of getting local people into higher skilled, higher paid jobs in the area, and that the Government’s proposals for a Lifetime Skills Guarantee must cater for those who choose not to take the ‘traditional classroom route’.
In her speech, Burton’s MP praised the town’s low unemployment, but highlighted that the resident workforce is currently underrepresented in higher paid, higher skilled jobs in the area. Ms Griffiths made clear that narrowing the skills gap is key to the future prosperity of Burton.
Since Kate was elected, Burton has already received £750,000 to regenerate the town centre, and public consultation is about to begin on Burton’s £22 million Town Investment Plan. This includes proposals for a new collaborative learning facility between Burton & South Derbyshire College and University of Wolverhampton to provide higher education skills to local residents.
The plans would see new health and social care facilities with a realistic environment for students to train in, along with a digital hub for those interested in mechatronics and cybersecurity.
Burton and Uttoxeter MP, Kate Griffiths, said:
“We must ensure everyone has the opportunity to realise their full potential regardless of where they come from or their background.
“The Government’s proposed Lifetime Skills Guarantee will mean people will be able to retrain and upskill throughout their lives, and give more options to those who choose not to go to university.
“Reducing the skills gap is also key to our town’s future, which is why the proposed new learning hub—as part of Burton’s Town Investment Plan—is so welcome.
“By reducing the skills gap and helping more local people into higher paid jobs, we can continue to grow Burton’s economy and ensure our town centre flourishes.”
