Report published by UKCES -employee demand for skills

UKCES - 09/07/09

The report reviews the evidence to assess barriers and motivators to skill development, principally amongst employees. It reports that the distribution of training amongst employees is not evenly spread across the workforce. Older people, people in lower skilled positions, some ethnic minority groups, those in low training sectors and non-unionised workplaces are all less likely to receive training from their employers. The reasons for this are many and complex and may be related to the practices of their employer; the cost of training; the location and provision of training or childcare difficulties for women in particular. These are 'extrinsic barriers', however, there are also a number of intrinsic factors, such as a lack of confidence, previous negative experiences of learning and a lack of motivation to learn.
 
UK and international* policies aimed at raising skill development amongst low skilled people are also reviewed within the study. It reports that financial support initiatives, often designed to tackle the significant 'cost' barrier to training, appears to be more effective when coupled with initial and on-going advice and support, especially for those most disadvantaged. The Educational Maintenance Allowance, for example, seems to influence parental attitudes to staying-on in education. As it is also dependent on attendance, it encourages on-going attendance rather than initial sign-up.  Additional support in the workplace is also seen as a helpful facilitator to skills development, whether this is by the employer or other champions such as Union Learning Representatives, and preferably both. Employer support will be particularly important for the incoming Right to Learn as international evidence suggests relatively low take up of this option where it has been applied elsewhere.
 
The report presents a framework for understanding policy design and implementation with regard to skills development for individuals which will be developed over the coming months.

To access the report click here