The funding will support initiatives that bring practical, problem-solving AI tools directly to hospital wards, construction sites, and small businesses across Barnsley. Four organisations will deliver hands-on training focused on saving time, boosting confidence, and improving employability.
Barnsley College will deploy mobile AI training units to hospital and social care staff, as well as the wider community, offering introductory sessions to build confidence and support career progression. Atheni will work with 140 individuals, primarily over 40, across six manufacturing, engineering, and construction firms, tailoring AI training to company-specific documents for tasks like quotes, tenders, and safety paperwork.
Fossu (Ignite AI), in collaboration with Barnsley YMCA, Postnatal Minds, and the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, will run challenge-led programmes for 100 residents, including women returning to work and young people, to use AI in solving local business and community problems. Optimise Cyber Solutions, partnered with Abbeydale Training, will assist 20 small businesses in adopting AI safely and effectively, aiming to enhance productivity and develop future female AI leaders.
These pilot projects are part of the Barnsley Tech Town initiative, underscoring the government's commitment to modernising public services and skills delivery. The initiative aims to return power to local communities by designing AI training around Barnsley's specific economic needs.
AI Minister Kanishka Narayan MP stated that the government will support individuals navigating the changing landscape of AI in the workplace. He highlighted that these schemes in Barnsley will set a standard for equipping people from all backgrounds with necessary skills and confidence, ensuring AI empowers workers and aligns with local economic opportunities.
Barnsley was designated the UK's first Tech Town in February, recognised for its potential to improve public services, strengthen local businesses, and create new job and skills opportunities through AI. Successful approaches from these pilots may be rolled out nationwide.
Councillor Luke Wheat, Barnsley Council's Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Assets, emphasised that Tech Town aims to make new technology work for Barnsley's residents and businesses. He noted that the funding will bring practical AI support directly into workplaces and communities, helping people build skills for the present and future. Lessons learned in Barnsley will be shared with others as the borough works towards becoming a leading digital town.
Additional Tech Town projects are underway, including the AI Career Launchpad at Barnsley College, offering training and paid work placements, and a pilot at Barnsley Hospital testing AI for patient care and staff efficiency. The government's AI Skills Boost initiative aims to equip 10 million UK workers with key AI skills by 2030, with 10,000 work experience placements for young people over three years.
