In 2023, 25% of the UK population were reported to likely struggle with basic digital services, with a 2024 government report estimating that this gap in digital skills could cost the UK economy £63 billion annually. Following an increasing digitalisation of the UK economy, and businesses integrating new technology into daily tasks, workers who are not provided with training will lack adequate skills and risk being left behind in the transition. Technological advancement in industries such as manufacturing and engineering has left many employers struggling to find employees with the advanced digital skills to use new technology, particularly generations already well established in the workplace. The digital transformation has the opportunity contribute positively to the UK economy but with concerns about workers lacking skills to maximise these benefits, how do we address the digital skills gap to meet future needs and promote productivity?

This event will:

• Examine the implications of the digital skills gap on the workforce and wider UK economy.
• Explore the benefits of initiatives such as apprenticeships and skills bootcamps in supporting young people and adults in improving digital skills.
• Discuss effective ways to upskill the existing and new generations in the workforce to enable the progression and benefits of digitalisation.