FDM welcomes the new Digital Strategy from the UK Government

The UK Government today published a new Digital Strategy including training opportunities, a proposal for international hubs and a new Digital Skills Partnership. FDM welcomes this new strategy and the commitment to help everyone develop the skills to succeed in the increasingly digital UK economy.

Announced by Culture Secretary, Karen Bradley the new Digital Strategy outlines the Government’s plans for digital skills training. Most notably this strategy has created a Digital Skills Partnership between businesses, Government and charities to create training opportunities to match the skills in their local area.

The Strategy also announces the creation of five international tech hubs in emerging markets. This aims to develop partnerships between UK organisations and local tech firms and “spark growth in the digital economy”. Measures to support digital infrastructure including funding to improve the roll out and uptake of full fibre broadband and 5G are also included in this new strategy.

Commenting on the Strategy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Karen Bradley MP said: “This Digital Strategy sets a path to make Britain the best place to start and grow a digital business, trial a new technology, or undertake advanced research as part of the Government’s plan to build a modern, dynamic and global trading nation”.

FDM welcomes this new strategy and is proud to be referenced in the report for our work developing a more diverse workforce through our   Getting Back to Business Programme. The programme helps talented individuals re-enter the workplace after a career break through tailored training, mentoring and fast-track career progression.

Rod Flavell, FDM’s CEO says: “We must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to develop digital skills to support the UK as a world-leading digital economy.”

“At FDM, we particularly welcome the Government’s announcement that it will create five international technology hubs in emerging markets to allow UK companies to maintain their global edge. FDM’s growth internationally demonstrates the global need for IT and digital skills and the success that UK companies have in this field. We very much look forward to seeing the detail around this as it develops.”

Updated 2 March, 2017