PHX Training has unveiled its new employment-focused courses to support businesses in the Westmorland and Furness area.

Backed by Westmorland and Furness Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme delivers tailor-made support for people seeking jobs who are not served by traditional options.

The initiative also aims to challenge barriers preventing individuals from accessing education and training while at work. PHX Training’s team - featuring employer engagement officers, tutors, and key workers - will work directly with businesses and learners.

They will offer bespoke support, pinpointing and addressing the challenges that hamper progress within employment.

The courses offered are wide-ranging, including mental health first aid and advocacy in the workplace, Excel, Personal Licences, principles of team leading, business administration, customer service, data protection, security and more.

Each completed course will equip learners with a Level Two qualification, equal to a GCSE grade nine to four.

The project will target priority groups in employment such as those seeking to upskill, individuals at risk of exiting the labour market prematurely, members of under-represented groups, as well as individuals residing in remote rural areas or areas of socioeconomic deprivation.

Managing director of PHX Training, Briony Fawcett, said: "At PHX Training, we are passionate about supporting our local communities, this new contract allows us to do that on a larger scale by engaging with businesses as well as individuals to help to upskill the workforce throughout the region.

"Often, we meet learners who want to access our courses but are unable to do so due to time constraints or eligibility.

"This project will allow individuals to develop their skills whilst learning on the job and gaining practical experience."

The course delivery will be flexible, fitting the needs of participants and employers, and lessons are available at the PHX Training centre in Barrow, outreach in Kendal and Penrith, or online.

PHX Training's wide range of vocational courses include basic English and maths, IT skills, health and social care qualifications, warehousing, and business administration.

It also help with careers advice, CV writing workshops, interview techniques, and establishing links with employers looking for new recruits.

If you’re interested in upskilling your workforce, contact centre manager Dawn Bolam on 01229 808095 or workbasedlearning@phxtraining.co.uk.