ClickAJob News

A new scheme to offer free university places to the unemployed will only work if they understand the benefits of re-skilling, one organisation believes.

In the opinion of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), it is the responsibility of jobseekers to develop their skills, both for themselves and any company they may work for.

However, the body stresses that the proposals - put forward by university think-tank Million+ - will only be effective if there is enough demand from the public.

Sarah Van Der Heyden, public policy adviser at the CIPD, said: "It's not just about throwing money at it, it's about driving up demand, and making sure that individuals, as well as employers, see the benefit for themselves and for the economy of upskilling and re-skilling over this time."

A spokesperson for ClickAJob welcomes the scheme as life-saver for jobseekers.

"Sure it's a challenge, applying yourself to serious studying," he says.

"Not at all like goofing around back in school days, this would be an unequalled second chance, an amazing opportunity to begin your whole life afresh."

"On the other hand, low self esteem and the negativity of unemployment may cause many jobseekers to give up before they've even started," he warns.

"It is essential in promoting such a scheme that applicants are aware they are making an investment in themselves and actively creating a change for the better."

Research from the CIPD reveals that only 32 per cent of employers say they have cut training funds this year.