MP backs £5 million investment into skills bootcamps

The funding will create new training opportunities for Teesside workers, including builders, carers, and engineers.

It is part of a wider initiative by Labour’s Plan for Change, backed by a £3 billion apprenticeship budget.

The investment is aimed at alleviating skill shortages and reducing the need for migrant workers in the area.

The programme will create 120,000 new training opportunities across England, with 30,000 additional apprenticeships.

This includes more adult apprenticeships, following changes to English and Maths requirements.

Luke Myer, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: “Our Plan for Change needs a skills revolution, and these landmark reforms, backed by unprecedented investment, will ensure we give young people the best start.

“When I speak with families and employers in communities from Loftus to Hemlington, I hear the same message: people want more chances for the next generation.

“Labour is delivering, with new routes into construction, care, and the high-skill jobs of the future.”

He added that the new initiative will help secure growth and good work for the region.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson added: “A skilled workforce is the key to steering the economy forward, and today we’re backing the next generation by giving young people more opportunities to learn a trade, earn a wage and achieve and thrive.”

“When we invest in skills for young people, we invest in a shared, stronger economic future, creating opportunities as part of our Plan for Change.

“But everyone has a role to play in a thriving economy, and we’re taking our responsibility seriously providing more routes into employment, it’s now the responsibility of young people to take them.”