The funding will enable the continued delivery of Skills Bootcamps, providing free, flexible training for unemployed adults across a range of sectors including digital, construction, health and social care, education and horticulture. It will also support employers to upskill their workforce through funded training, with SMEs eligible for up to 90% funding and larger employers up to 70%.
Since launching in 2023, Hampshire County Council’s Skills Bootcamp programme has trained nearly 4,000 learners, transforming skills and career opportunities across the county, with this year’s programme already achieving strong early results.
Councillor Kirsty North, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Universal Services at Hampshire County Council, said: "This additional funding will help more Hampshire residents gain the skills they need to succeed, while supporting employers to address skills shortages and grow their workforce.
“Skills Bootcamps are delivering real benefits for our communities, local businesses and the regional economy. They are helping people develop confidence, gain valuable qualifications and move into employment, while providing businesses with access to the skills they need to succeed. With thousands of people already benefiting from the programme, we're looking forward to helping even more residents build rewarding careers and supporting businesses with the skilled workforce they need for the future."
Skills Bootcamps are developed in partnership with employers to ensure training reflects current workforce needs and gives learners practical, industry-relevant skills. For eligible adults, the courses offer a flexible and accessible route into employment, career progression or retraining. Unemployed learners are guaranteed a job interview on completion, while businesses can use Skills Bootcamps to upskill their teams.
For the full range of Skills Bootcamps available in Hampshire, go to the Prosperity Hampshire webpages