Learning disability charity Mencap has announced that it will create over 50 apprenticeships for its current staff through a new data academy.
Starting this September, Mencap employees from across its business functions will be able to access the apprenticeships, which will go up to degree level.
The training will be delivered by Multiverse, a tech company which has trained more than 16,000 apprentices in data and digital skills since 2016.
Programmes will include the 13-month AI for Business Value programme, which will train apprentices to identify business value gains that can be achieved by using AI, and give them the skills to use the technology responsibly to drive business outcomes.
Another programme on offer will be the degree-level Advanced Data Fellowship, which will train apprentices in data analysis and data science, and enable them to graduate with a BSc degree.
Mencap confirmed it would use the government’s apprenticeship levy, a charge first introduced by the government in 2017, to fund the apprenticeships.
The charity offers over 30 other apprenticeship schemes for its staff, in areas such as social care, finance, project management and content creation.
Improving data and AI literacy in the charity sector
Jackie O’Sullivan, Mencap’s executive director of strategy, said: “Investing in data skills isn’t just for big business, it’s pivotal for navigating the dynamic landscape in the third sector too.
“This new data academy will harness Multiverse’s expertise in critical areas such as AI and data literacy and develop our team’s skills.
“This will not only improve our business practices and help drive efficiency at scale, but it also represents a strategic investment in the skills of our colleagues that will support the attraction and retention of skilled and valued colleagues.”
Gary Eimerman, Multiverse’s chief learning officer, said: “The effective use of data and AI has the potential to radically transform organisations.
“For a charity like Mencap, this could not only increase the number of people, families and carers that they can support through their exceptional services, but it’s also an investment in their employees: enriching the career trajectories of the team at Mencap.”
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