New skills hub to boost employability of Blackpool residents

Training provider Realise is set to open a new skills hub in Blackpool aimed at enhancing the employment opportunities of thousands of residents.

The new centre will be based at 81C Church Street, next to Winter Gardens, and open with a special ceremony on Friday, May 10.

The hub will specialise in offering free training provision for those who are unemployed in the town or in work and looking to enhance their credentials.

While it is anticipated more than 500 residents will complete courses in the next 12 months, Realise expects that figure to increase into the thousands over the coming years.

Amongst the courses which will be offered to residents are maths and English, logistics, security, digital IT skills, hairdressing and teaching assistant.

Gregg Scott, CEO of Realise, said: “We are thrilled to be on the brink of opening our new Skills Hub in Blackpool.

“The hub will be supporting Sector Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) for those who are unemployed, as well as adult education short courses for both employed and unemployed residents.

“We’ve worked closely with local employers and other stakeholders to ensure the courses we are offering are in line with the current and future requirements of the Blackpool economy."

The training will be funded after Realise was awarded a contract from the Education and Skills Funding Agency for non-devolved areas of England.