Senior women from politics, trade unions and education meet to highlight Train to Gain pilot design

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Train to Gain is aiming to provide women with access to obtaining Level 3 qualifications in a pilot scheme in London. Senior female figures from the world of politics, trade unions and education met earlier today to discuss how women across the country can access quality training and education, as they sought to raise awareness of the scheme.

Meg Munn MP, Minister for Women and Communities held breakfast discussions with Megan Dobney, Regional Secretary Southern and Eastern Region TUC, Liz Smith, unionlearn Director, Philippa Langton, Skills Director, London LSC, and Jenny Watson, Chair of the Equal Opportunities Commission.

The event sought to discuss how unions can support women accessing the fund. Deputy Minister for Women and Equality, Meg Munn MP said: I am keen to see real progress made in improving the employment opportunities for women and ensuring that issues such as skills gaps and occupational segregation are addressed. Women need access to the right kind of training to help them start work, develop their careers and return to work.

“The Government is committed to ensuring that individuals are equipped with the skills they need to be employable and personally fulfilled. Investing in skills and training is important for the economy as a whole.”

Unionlearn director Liz Smith highlighted the successful role that Union Learning Representatives have played in the workplace throughout London. She said: “Women are some of the most vulnerable workers, often low-paid or part-time and many lost the chance to really reach their potential in learning because of family or caring duties. Union-led learning provides a second chance for many women, who can take up opportunities in the workplace, which may be tailored around their working and family lives. Women are well-represented among union learning representatives, at over 42% and over half of the new activists. However, we must make sure that London’s women are not short changed when it comes to training.”