Skills-boosting projects smash targets

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the outstanding success of three major skills-boosting projects which all exceeded their targets.

Together, the Upskilling Project and the two phases of the Shropshire Skills Hub delivered more than 1,000 training opportunities, supporting hundreds of businesses and individuals.

All three were financed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and the Chamber partnered with a range of local training providers including AC Training, Inspired Mindset, SBC Training and Shrewsbury College.

The Upskilling Project provided fully-funded short courses and a five‑day leadership programme to help small and medium‑sized businesses enhance the capability of their existing workforce in the Shropshire Council local authority area.

Training ranged from leadership, project management and digital skills to finance, HR, sales and AI awareness, and more than 160 small or medium sized businesses took part.

Feedback showed that the training helped businesses retain staff, improve productivity and strengthen their ability to navigate challenging economic conditions.

The first phase of the Shropshire Skills Hub project offered grants of up to £1,500 for individuals to gain vocational qualifications, licences or certificates to support career progression or a job change.

It allowed more than 400 people to achieve a qualification, with many reporting promotions, new roles or successful career transitions.

The second phase continued this momentum, offering grants of up to £2,000 for vocational training and reaching a further 221 people. All three projects exceeded their targets.

Shropshire Chamber chief executive Ruth Ross said: “These programmes have transformed opportunities for people across Shropshire - whether they were looking to progress in their current roles, retrain for a new career, or help their business adapt to a changing marketplace.

“To exceed every target across all three projects is an incredible achievement and a testament to the hard work of our team, our partners and the determination of every participant.

“Skills development is at the heart of a thriving local economy. By investing in people, we are investing in Shropshire’s future. These projects have strengthened our workforce, supported business resilience and opened doors for hundreds of individuals. We are immensely proud of what has been achieved.”