Free digital training and support from Growth Hub
THE Stoke and Staffordshire Growth Hub has launched its #Dodigital series which offers free, accredited digital training courses, in-business support and live digital seminars to businesses of all sizes across the region.
Back by popular demand, a newly enhanced and free package of support is now available, offering an opportunity for businesses to update support for their customers and employees in our new digital world, and well as upskill their staff for the future.
Despite digital now needing to be an essential part of every business and every job, just one in 10 businesses have taken action to address the widening skills gap that a fifth of businesses have already reported.
Those sectors with the highest skills gaps include information and communication; professional, scientific and technical activities; admin; commerce, transport and accommodation and food service and construction.
Alun Rogers, chairman of the LEP said: “We know that digital skills are no longer just relevant to the tech sector but are now a universal requirement for every business across Stokeon-trent and Staffordshire. Not only do roles requiring digital skills pay on average 29% more that roles that don’t, digital skills are a key driver of productivity, social inclusion and readiness for the future of the workforce.
“Moreover, businesses that don’t do digital will get left behind. Ten years ago, people hadn’t really heard of Bitcoin or Instagram, but these channels and digital platforms are now part of the business growth machine, and having the skills and confidence to maximise their potential will be what enables companies survive and grow into the future. It’s that important.
“That’s why the LEP is really proud to be working with the Growth Hub and Chamber of Commerce to bring this training programme to people in the region, and I encourage businesses to get in touch and make the most of the support. It’s never been more important that it has now to Do Digital.”