DCG is leading on a major new project to address the digital skills shortages faced by employers in the D2N2 area.

It is part of a forward-thinking partnership which has received support under the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) to help our key commercial and industrial sectors thrive in a dynamic digitised employment landscape.

One aim is to create Digital Knowledge Exchange Hubs in association with local employers where SMEs and micro businesses can experiment with new technologies and help their staff to develop the higher-level digital skills that drive productivity and growth.

It is anticipated that two Hubs will be created to serve Derby and Derbyshire, providing sector-specific training in everything from data analysis to software development, digital marketing to basic computer literacy.

Sectors which will benefit range from manufacturing, energy supply, construction and transport to agriculture, human health, social work, arts and entertainment, and public administration.

The initiative is based on extensive research, including employer engagement to identify the digital skills needs of the region. The findings revealed the challenges employers face in recruiting staff who have both the general and specialist knowledge to meet the demands of an ever-changing digital work environment. This includes the higher-level digital skills required for driving productivity and growth in what is regarded as the fourth industrial revolution.

Working with a range of range of delivery partners – including Chesterfield College, Derby Adult Learning Service, Derbyshire Adult Community Service and Futures Advice, Skills and Employment – DCG will establish two hubs which cover:

• The city of Derby, Erewash, Amber Valley, Derbyshire Dales (South) and parts of South Derbyshire
• Chesterfield, Derbyshire Dales, High Peak and North East Derbyshire

It will also create a new programme of targeted initiatives to bridge gaps in provision that are not currently supported through existing funding streams. This includes a focus on engaging and inspiring demographic groups who might not otherwise have an opportunity to develop their digital skills.