The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has partnered with internet giant Google to provide 9,000 jobseekers across the UK with scholarships to gain a Google Career Certificate

scheme to boost the digital skills of jobseekers has been launched at Toxteth Jobcentre in Liverpool.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has partnered with internet giant Google to provide 9,000 jobseekers across the UK with scholarships to gain a Google Career Certificate.

The scholarship will let jobseekers access courses to grow the necessary skills for a career in technology and IT, with Universal Credit claimants being referred to the scholarships by their Work Coach.

The courses do not require relevant experience or a degree and are recognised by industry experts and employers, including Google. The courses, which are now live to applicants, include IT Support, Data Analyst, Project Manager and UX Designer.

Welcoming the announcement in Liverpool, Minister for Employment Mims Davies, said: “Helping jobseekers to build the confidence and skills they need to take up new opportunities is vital for the next stage in our recovery from the pandemic. Our Plan for Jobs puts skills at the heart of that.”

Stephen Evans, Learning and Work Institute chief executive, added: “As the economy reopens, so too will new job opportunities. For many of those looking for work, learning new skills will be a vital part of taking up these opportunities.

“This initiative has the potential to help jobseekers to gain the skills they need for a rewarding career and to do so in a flexible way. We must break down barriers to opportunity.”