A landmark investment from the Rigby Foundation has earmarked £600,000 to aid in developing tech careers for young people in the West Midlands.
This financial backing, managed by Generation UK, is set to benefit over 300 individuals, focusing on addressing youth unemployment and boosting social mobility within the region.
Significant Financial Contribution
The Rigby Foundation has generously allocated £600,000 to spearhead the development of young professionals into the tech industry within the West Midlands. This investment aims to support at least 300 young individuals by providing them with the necessary skills and training. The charity Generation UK is responsible for administering these funds, focusing on enhancing opportunities for the youth in the region.
Addressing Youth Unemployment
Youth unemployment remains a pressing concern in areas like Walsall, Wolverhampton, and Birmingham, with rates reported to be twice the national average. The region currently houses over 130,000 unemployed individuals, nearly 21,000 of whom are aged between 16 and 24. This initiative seeks to alleviate such statistics by integrating these young people into promising careers in technology.
The Rigby Foundation’s efforts align with the regional strategic goals set by local authorities. These efforts aim to address both persistent unemployment and the unmet demand from employers in high-growth sectors. By providing training and career opportunities, the initiative facilitates an essential link between education and employment in the tech industry.
Collaboration with Generation UK
Generation UK, a charity based in Surrey, will be deploying the funds to develop tech skills crucial for the workforce.
By working alongside the Department for Education, Generation UK will offer skills bootcamps in areas such as data engineering, cyber security, and IT support. The goal is to equip participants with skills that match the specific needs of regional businesses.
Generation UK’s existing collaboration with local employers is vital. It ensures that trained candidates are not only equipped with the necessary skills but also have access to job placements, facilitating smoother transitions into the workforce.
Support from SCC
SCC, a business owned by the Rigby family, is actively participating by offering various forms of support to the programme.
SCC staff will volunteer to mentor young participants, providing them with real-world experience and guidance.
Additionally, SCC will supply essential equipment and host events aimed at enhancing practical skills, thus further bolstering the effectiveness of Generation UK’s training programmes.
Strategic Importance for the Rigby Foundation
The donation represents a commitment to long-term social mobility and skill development in the West Midlands. Marking 50 years since Sir Peter Rigby founded the group, the family’s charitable arm aims to empower local young people.
This approach is set to benefit both individuals and the regional economy by enhancing the workforce’s skills base.
The initiative is part of a three-year partnership with Generation UK, expected to yield significant benefits for the local community and broaden the scope of tech education and employment.
Endorsement from Regional Leaders
The initiative has secured endorsements from influential figures like West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, who is advocating for the creation of numerous learning and work opportunities.
Steve Rigby reiterated the family’s dedication to supporting regional efforts and encouraged other local business leaders to contribute to the programme.
He emphasised the collective potential in addressing employment issues and leveraging communal efforts to initiate positive change in the job market.
Looking Ahead
The possibilities this funding unlocks are vast, particularly in equipping young adults with high-demand skills in the tech sector.
This strategic investment stands to significantly impact social mobility and employment opportunities in the West Midlands.
As the programme rolls out over the next three years, the collaboration between the Rigby Foundation, Generation UK, and local businesses promises to yield substantial benefits for the region’s young workforce.
