Steve Rotheram saw first-hand how Realise, one of a group of providers offering adult education training in the region, deliver programmes to learners aged 19 and over based in Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and the Wirral.

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority is using its devolved adult education budget to provide adults with the skills they need for work by delivering flexible tailored programmes of learning.

A total of 1,381 learners have been helped through Adult Education Budget training programmes delivered by Realise in the last two years, many of whom were either unemployed and in receipt of a low wage or benefits.

“I know first-hand the impact that adult education can have in transforming people’s futures. I started my career as an apprentice bricklayer but took the opportunity to study later in life. The support and guidance I received as an adult learner set me on a new path and helped lay the foundations for where I am today.

“People in our region are too often held back, not by a lack of talent but a lack of opportunity. Devolution means that we can put that right – by prioritising adult education for investment we are able to give a promise of hope and opportunity to everyone with an aspiration to build a career for themselves, proving that it’s never too late to achieve your ambitions and fulfil your full potential.”

“We were delighted to welcome Steve to our offices and show him how we deliver an innovative and flexible approach designed to meet the requirements of the region.

“It’s really rewarding being able to support residents in the Liverpool City Region and give them access to fully funded skills, especially during such a difficult period with the pandemic.

“The work we put in with all our learners can make a huge difference to their lives but it’s also vitally important for the future of the city region from an economic point of view.”

“It was fantastic to meet with Realise and Steve Rotheram to discuss skills and employability.

“Realise are one of AELP’s fantastic members, who deliver various programmes in the Liverpool City Region and beyond. It was great to show Steve first-hand the good work that they are doing to support learners in Liverpool, using funding from the devolved Adult Education Budget.

“This shows the real difference that can be made for learners in local communities, by harnessing the power of devolution. Steve has always been a fantastic advocate for skills and work-based learning, and we look forward to continuing to work with him on this important agenda.”

Realise provides first class skills, education and employment services to more than 7,000 learners and thousands of employers across the UK every year.