More than 55,000 West Midlands people have been given vital job skills or training in the last year, new data shows.
Tackling unemployment a top priority
WM Mayor Richard Parker set the target after being elected in May last year to help thousands of people across the region move into work, change careers and upskill in important industries such as construction.
Some areas of the region have unemployment levels at double the national average.
With over 27,000 young people claiming unemployment benefits, creating job opportunities and upskilling people across the region has become vital for regional economic growth.
Mayor Parker said: “From day one my priority has been to work with partners to open up meaningful training opportunities to help people land work or better jobs and change thousands of lives for the better.”
Greater devolved powers will help cut unemployment
According to the mayor, new devolved powers and funding would bring an even bigger push to build a better equipped workforce – though many across the political landscape are critical of this claim.
The WMCA seeks to work with employers and training providers to help boost employment further. So far 6,500 places have already been pledged for young people across the region.
The mayor’s “Jobs for Everyone” priority involves investing in jobs, skills, training and apprenticeships so everyone has the opportunity to secure a job that pays well.
