YORKSHIRE Building Society has announced a pilot partnership with Good Things Foundation to provide digital skills training to 150 people from ethnic minority backgrounds in Bradford to help with employability prospects.

The partnership forms part of the Society's commitment to put £240,000 extra investment into Bradford in 2021.

Good Things Foundation also supports the Bradford-based Society’s ambition to provide at least 2,000 people in Bradford with employability support by the end of 2022.

Pauline Giroux, Senior Manager for Social Purpose and Sustainability at Yorkshire Building Society, said: “This announcement is about us helping to nurture the talent of people from Bradford that may otherwise be overlooked, and to provide support to the city in rebuilding its economy and opportunities post-Covid.

“By working with Good Things Foundation to pilot and deliver digital skills workshops for people from ethnic minority backgrounds, we will be supporting adult learners, career switchers and people looking to return to work or start a career to prepare for the future of employment in an increasingly digital world.

“Our wider investment into Bradford is a reaffirmation of our commitment to the city, where in 1885, our predecessors established the Bradford Self Help Permanent Building Society in St George's Hall Coffee Tavern, and where the Society has been based throughout the 135 years since.”

Helen Milner OBE, Chief Executive of Good Things Foundation, added: “We’re delighted to be working with Yorkshire Building Society on this pilot partnership, providing people in Bradford from ethnic minority backgrounds digital skills training - in turn driving the recovery and ensuring that everyone is healthier, happier, and better off.”