Coding initiative wins national award

CODE Lancashire, a programme addressing the county's tech skills shortage by teaching residents to code in 12 weeks, has won a national award.

The programme was named Coding Initiative of the Year at the UK Dev Awards 2024, held at Montcalm Marble Arch in London.

The award recognises programmes that encourage and train future coders, particularly those individuals who may not otherwise have got involved in coding.

Since its launch in 2022 CODE Lancashire has delivered six cohorts to over 150 Lancashire residents. In addition to providing digital skills and employability training, CODE Lancashire collaborates with local business to pair participants with employment opportunities.

Within 18 months, CODE Lancashire has facilitated the employment of 47 candidates in the tech sector, with 45 per cent of those being women and individuals of minority genders.

The CODE programme is currently delivering its seventh Lancashire cohort.

Paul Aisthorpe, CODE managing director, said: “We are so proud to have won the Coding Initiative of the Year at the UK Dev Awards. From our inspiring learners, passionate and dedicated team members, industry professionals who deliver on the programme, and the tech businesses that have engaged with CODE, we have been able to create something that’s truly unique, accessible and that delivers impact within the thriving tech sector for Lancashire and beyond.

“Our consistent commitment to CODE has created a vibrant community and has transformed our candidates into skilled contributors of the industry and the next generation of digital talent.”