Union Learning Fund

She highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and digital skills in the face of economic uncertainty, noting that union learning reps have played a crucial role during the pandemic by supporting staff with online working. She criticised the Government's decision to cut the Union Learning Fund as short-sighted and at odds with their levelling up agenda.

The decision to scrap the Union Learning Fund is staggering given its success in providing workplace learning for those who need it most, removing barriers to qualifications and skills. The fund benefits 200,000 workers annually and is valued by employers across industries. It should be reviewed and maintained instead of scrapped.

Kate Osborne highlighted the importance of the Union Learning Fund during a time when workers are facing job losses due to the pandemic. She noted that since its inception over 20 years ago, the fund has enabled millions of workers to improve their skills, with statistics showing significant positive outcomes for learners and employers alike.

Mr MacAskill highlighted the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing that people need opportunities for retraining to adapt to evolving job markets. He noted the crucial role of workplace-based learning and the historical context of initiatives like the Workers' Educational Association, which provided workers with educational opportunities. Mr MacAskill questioned whether the decision to end the fund is prejudiced against trade unions or simply perverse given the current economic climate.

Kim Johnson questioned why the Government is proposing to scrap a successful scheme like the Union Learning Fund when they have declared reskilling workers as central to their economic recovery plans. She emphasized the fund's success in providing training and qualifications to approximately 200,000 workers annually since its launch.

The Union Learning Fund supports 250,000 workers and contributes £5.4 million to the economy through improved productivity, with an estimated return of £3.57 for every pound spent. The fund is crucial for retraining during the pandemic and should not be ended as it aids in building back better post-COVID-19.

I speak as a former Unison convenor and MP, highlighting the Union Learning Fund's role in promoting lifelong learning for those who have been traditionally failed by mainstream education. It has provided life-changing opportunities for many workers, especially during times of redundancy, such as with Thomas Cook employees. The fund creates £12.87 for every pound invested.

The Union Learning Fund returns £1.4 billion to the economy for an investment of £12 million, providing transformative learning opportunities for workers who otherwise would not participate in training programs.

The Union Learning Fund supports workplace learning, providing lifelong learning courses for workers. The fund has a positive return on investment with £1 spent generating £7.60 in benefits for workers, £4.70 for employers, and £3.57 for the government.

Ms Owen highlighted the transformative power of in-work learning and shared a story about Mark Church, whose life was changed through Unionlearn training. She urged the Minister to reconsider scrapping Unionlearn, as it benefits individuals and companies alike by providing necessary skills.

Ms Malhotra expressed concerns about the termination of £12 million annual funding for Unionlearn, which supports over 200,000 learners. She questioned the Minister on her assessment of the impact and return on investment of the fund. A learning rep from Unite emphasised that the ULF offers opportunities to workers who may not have had the confidence or time to pursue education elsewhere.

The Union Learning Fund has helped millions across the UK by encouraging greater uptake of learning within workplaces and upskilling employees, with 12:1 return on investment. In Coventry, it has allowed constituents to learn essential skills and progress in their careers, with statistics showing 80% developing transferable skills and 62% acquiring more effective jobs.

Expressed concern over the lack of Conservative MPs participating in the debate, highlighting that Unionlearn has cross-party support since its inception in 1998. Emphasized that the programme reaches people who missed out on functional literacy and numeracy through statutory education, transforming their lives. Cited evidence showing that for every pound invested in Unionlearn, there is a £12.87 economic return. Stated that the decision will cost the government money due to a £3.60 return for each pound spent. Pointed out the lack of consultation with employers and trade bodies before the decision.

She agreed with other Members that scrapping the union learning fund is puzzling, especially during a time when employees need to retrain. She praised the fund's power-to-the-people approach and its value for money. She questioned where the £12 million funding was diverted to and asked about any assessment of the impact on levelling up.

The Union Learning Fund supports 200,000 workers annually and is a proven success with significant returns for every £1 spent. The fund enriches everyone through better pay, productivity gains, social security savings, and revenue gains. It is needed now more than ever to address unemployment and the climate emergency.