Two new schemes are due to launch in Barnsley to help residents use AI in simple, practical ways, to help them with things like finding working, building confidence and training for future careers.
One scheme will support people who want to train for jobs linked to AI, and the other will help jobseekers use AI tools when applying for work.
The AI Career Launchpad is a partnership with Barnsley College worth more than £400,000. It will offer local people of all ages a faster, more flexible route into AI jobs, with learners getting six months of training linked to a Level 4 apprenticeship, plus paid placements so they can gain experience while they learn.
Local businesses that sign up will benefit by getting early access to people training in AI, with government-funded placements helping them bring fresh skills into their teams. The programme will also help firms test how AI could save time, reduce admin, improve services and help them grow.
When the programme is complete, the curriculum will be made freely available so other colleges and training providers can use it.
From September, jobseekers in the area will also get hands-on support through the new Getting Job Ready with AI pilot. The pilot is designed to help people who are already comfortable using technology in everyday life but want more confidence using AI and digital tools when looking for work or preparing for the workplace.
Support could include using AI to search for suitable roles, tailor CVs and cover letters, prepare for interviews and understand how employers are already using digital tools in day-to-day jobs. People will be referred through Jobcentre Plus.
Minister for Employment, Andrew Western, said: "Getting more people into good jobs is at the heart of this government’s plan to spread opportunity to every postcode.
"In Barnsley, we’re testing how AI can support that ambition, helping jobseekers build the confidence and skills they need to compete for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
"This sits alongside the wider changes we’re making through jobcentres up and down the country, as well as investing £3.5 billion in tailored employment support to help people with health conditions and disabilities move into work. We’re also supporting young people into work through our £2.5 billion youth employment support package."
AI Minister Kanishka Narayan said: "AI is going to transform the world of work and our job is to make sure working people benefit from that change.
"That starts with helping people understand how AI can be useful day to day – whether that means finding a job, learning new skills or building a career in a growing industry.
"Barnsley is showing what this can look like in practice. As our first Tech Town, it is helping us find ways that can create opportunities for local people and support communities across the country."
