West Yorkshire Launches Digital Skills Initiative for Unemployed Residents

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin today announced a new program providing unemployed residents lacking digital skills with free devices, training, and internet access to improve job prospects and access essential online services.

The initiative, launched on October 15, will offer participants a laptop or similar device, personalized digital skills coaching, and free data or Wi-Fi connectivity. The rollout will begin in Leeds and then expand to other areas of West Yorkshire in the coming months, funded by a £250,000 commitment from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. This comes as access to online resources becomes increasingly vital for participation in modern society.

Brabin stated the program aims to reduce digital exclusion and improve employment opportunities for those currently unable to access online services. Cindy Gunn, group head of people at Gi Group UK, explained that “Recruitment has become increasingly digitally driven… it does risk excluding candidates who lack regular internet access, technology or the skillset to access online tools.” Experts also suggest employers can mitigate this issue by offering offline application options and partnering with local job centers, as discussed in resources from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Professional Development.

HR professionals emphasize the need for inclusive hiring practices. Matt Monette, UKI country lead at Deel, believes “hiring should be inclusive by design, not exclusive by default,” and urges HR leaders to ensure recruitment platforms are mobile-friendly. Further support for jobseekers can be found through the UK government’s employment and jobseeking website.

Officials stated the program will continue to roll out across West Yorkshire, with ongoing evaluation to ensure it effectively addresses the digital skills gap and supports residents into employment.