Retraining demand sees sharp rise as unemployment increases – Strive Training

Demand for vocational retraining is increasing as unemployment rises, with applications for funded courses now exceeding available places in some areas, according to training provider Strive Training.

The UK-based provider said it is seeing a surge in adults seeking to upskill or reskill in response to changing labour market conditions, resulting in waiting lists and constrained enrolment despite strong interest from learners.

The trend comes as the UK unemployment rate reaches 5.2%, its highest level in nearly five years, with youth unemployment particularly elevated at around 14% among 18 to 24-year-olds.

Jonny Phillips, managing director at Strive Training, said rising unemployment typically triggers immediate demand for practical training.

He said: “Whenever unemployment rises, we see an immediate behavioural shift.

“People do not wait. They look for practical, employment-focused training that can help them re-enter the workforce quickly.

“The appetite to retrain is strong and decisive.”

He added: “As of this week, we have 452 learners waiting for funded places on our courses, the highest number we have ever seen.

“We are even holding back from attending some Jobcentre and jobs fair activity because we know additional referrals would only add to waiting lists we cannot currently service. That is the reality providers are facing on the ground.

“What we are experiencing at present is not a lack of ambition across the system. Government investment in skills is significant and welcome.

“However, when labour market conditions change quickly, providers can struggle to scale delivery at the same pace.”

Phillips added that increased competition for fewer vacancies is driving people toward training as a way to improve their employment prospects.

He continued: “There are more people chasing fewer vacancies now. When that happens, people look for anything that gives them an advantage.

“That usually means training, and that means unemployed people are looking for an added advantage in the job market. That means skills.

“Our colleagues in Jobcentres are equally committed to moving people into training and back into work, and in some cases are frustrated that they cannot refer more individuals than current allocations allow. The issue is not willingness, it is capacity.”