Computer training could help reduce Welsh unemployment

16:42 19th March 2009

Computer training could help to tackle rising levels of unemployment in Wales as the recession hits the principality.

New figures released by the Office for National Statistics have shown that 7.6 per cent of the working-age population in Wales are now unemployed, representing the highest figure since 1997.

Across the UK, there are currently 2.03 million people unemployed, with concerns that the figure could top three million in the near future as the recession deepens and jobs remain hard to come by.

However, unemployed people can help to give themselves an edge when looking for new work by enrolling in computer training courses that could provide them with important new skills.

Minister for employment and welfare reform, Tony McNulty, has promised to help people across the country in their efforts to secure employment.

"No matter how hard times get, we will not give up on anyone who loses their job and will continue to provide real help to everyone who needs it," he said.

Meanwhile, employment services provider Remploy has announced the introduction of new computer training services as part of its efforts to help people into work.

The organisation's new assessment package, FastPath, is aimed at getting more people into contact centre roles, where there has been an increase in demand despite the downturn.