Flexible Skills Programme fund to be more than tripled to £7.5M
Flexible Skills Programme fund to be more than tripled to £7.5M
The Welsh Government has increased its investment in the Flexible Skills Programme, raising annual funding from £1.3 million to over £7.5 million.
This it’s hoped expansion will provide thousands of individual opportunities for employees to participate in upskilling and re-skilling training courses.
This initiative supports the First Minister’s commitment to building a future Wales centered on job creation and green growth. The increased investment responds to growing demand from Welsh employers for enhanced employee skills to meet the challenges of evolving industries and new technologies. Key sectors and skills targeted include Engineering and Manufacturing, Digital/Cyber, green skills, and leadership and management.
Employers of any size can apply for the grant, which aims to help businesses quickly address skills gaps. The Welsh Government will cover 50% of training costs, up to £50,000 per business annually.
The expanded scheme was officially launched today, coinciding with the start of Learning at Work Week [Monday, May 12], at IQ Endoscopes (IQE). This innovative medical device startup has seen firsthand how the funding positively impacts workforce development. IQE is preparing to introduce its first product to the UK market—an affordable, sterile, and sustainable endoscope solution that will facilitate early diagnosis, reduce patient waiting times, and improve long-term health outcomes. Thanks to the Flexible Skills Programme, IQE has supported more than 170 training opportunities in technical, leadership, and management skills over the past two years.
Gemma Banks, HR Manager at IQE, expressed the impact of the programme: “As a small company, attracting highly skilled talent can be challenging. However, the programme has allowed us to provide targeted training, helping to bridge critical skills gaps proactively.”
Shaun O’Connell, an Engineering Technician at IQE, recently completed training in CoSHH, ISH, and the Control of Hazardous Substances through the programme. He noted:
“The training has significantly enhanced my role, enabling me to manage hazardous substances efficiently and maintain an up-to-date lab safety handbook. It’s made our lab both safer and more productive.”
Skills Minister Jack Sargeant highlighted the programme’s success, stating: “Over the past two years, we’ve supported more than 8,000 training interventions. Expanding the Flexible Skills Programme reflects our commitment to supporting Welsh businesses in upskilling their workforce. We’re determined to help companies build the skills needed for future success.”
With Wales set to host a major international investment summit later this year, the expanded programme also bolsters the country’s appeal to potential investors.
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