Unison extends training expertise to private sector

Unison, the UK’s largest union, has launched a new scheme offering its workplace learning expertise to the private sector.

Unison currently delivers tailored educational courses to the public sector in areas such as English as a second language, basic computer skills and literacy.

The union is now making its expertise avilable to private companies, as many do not have the resources to train their staff.

Dave Prentis, Unison general secretary, said: “Our union has the knowledge and experience of delivering training to those that need it the most – the low-paid, low-skilled workforce. Many are from ethnic minorities who do not have English as a first language.
 
“Some private companies don’t have the resources to offer training to these workers. We can offer bespoke courses that meet their needs.”

Training will give the employees the skills they need to do their jobs better while also providing a new resource for the company, he said.

However, the training will only be offered to private sector companies if they agree to a partnership with the union.

“In return for our expertise in workplace learning, we would like greater recognition, and better negotiating rights. This will allow our partnerships to grow in the private companies with benefits for all,” Prentis said.