Following the success of Phase 1 of the project, Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has launched Phase 2 of the UKSPF Shropshire Skills Hub, a dynamic initiative aimed at supporting individuals across the county to take the next step in their career journey.
The project is being delivered by Shropshire Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Inspired Mindset and SBC Training, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Continuing as delivery partners, Shropshire training experts Inspired Mindset and SBC Training ensure that learning is practical, professional, and local, however qualifications from any provider can be utilised.
This next phase is still exclusively for individuals who live in the Shropshire Council Local Authority area. Whether employed, self-employed or actively looking for work, eligible individuals can apply for one grant of up to £1,500 to fund or part fund a vocational qualification, certificate or licence achieved before 30 November 2025. The purpose of the funding is to support individuals gain specific skills and knowledge to support upwards career progression or a change of career.
Amanda Gosling, UKSPF Project Manager, explains “Phase 1 of the UKSPF Shropshire Skills Hub was received exceptionally well, resulting in us exceeding our target of supporting 400 individuals. The project financially supported 411 Shropshire Council residents in achieving a vocational qualification and now aim to support another 160 through Phase 2. This really is a fantastic opportunity for eligible individuals to gain a vocational qualification that provides them with specific skills and knowledge to progress in their career or change profession. Qualifications funded through Phase 1 of the project included PRINCE2® Project Management, ILM Level 3 and Level 5 in Leadership and Management, Level 3 BPEC Award in Solar Photovoltaic Installation, a Medical Terminology certificate, and a huge range of other topics”.
One of the many success stories from the Upskilling Project is Jasmine, who completed a Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading in September 2024. At the time, Jasmine was not yet in a leadership role but the course gave her the skills and confidence to step up when a new opportunity arose within her organisation.
“Throughout the course I learned lots of valuable skills about leading a team, such as different leadership styles, conflict management and time management,” Jasmine explained.
“A few months after completing the course, I applied for a promotion and used the terminology and knowledge I’d gained to help me through the interview process. I got the role and seven months later, I was promoted again to Lead Practitioner. The course gave me the confidence, skills and vocabulary to grow professionally, and I still refer back to the resources regularly. I’m now working towards a Level 5 NVQ in Health and Social Care and Leadership. I would highly recommend this course to anyone just starting out in a leadership role.”
From welding skills, CAD, Education and training, and an Introduction to Robotics course, through to Burnout Coaching, Leadership, Sales Success, Account Management, and AI for Professionals qualifications, there’s something for everyone in this next phase. Amanda adds, “with the project coming to an end in November it’s vital that anyone interested gets in touch to apply as soon as possible.”
To find out more about what is on offer and to confirm if you’re eligible, contact:
About UKSPF Shropshire Skills Hub
UKSPF Shropshire Skills Hub (phase 2) is offering a grant of up to £1,500 towards a vocational qualification to economically active individuals (employed or actively looking for work) resident in the Shropshire Council Local Authority area to support career progression.
UKSPF Shropshire Skills Hub aims to contribute to economic development, retention of talent, creation of new skills, and support career progression by retraining and upskilling local people.
For more information, visit: https://www.shropshire-chamber.co.uk/support-advice/skills-training-locator/ukspf-shropshire-skills-hub
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