Growing concern over digital skills shortage in Yorkshire and the Humber

MORE than a third (35%) of SMEs in Yorkshire and the Humber believe they will need enhanced or increased digital capabilities in the next three years, in order to cope with the ever-changing business landscape.

According to research, of that number, 78% are worried about how they will successfully up-skill, with many firms citing difficulties finding suitably skilled staff and the level of investment required as potential stumbling blocks.

The figures come from the latest Close Brothers Business Barometer, a quarterly survey that seeks to canvass the opinion of SME owners and managers across the UK on a range of issues that affect their business.

Lee Hayes, regional sales director for Close Brothers Invoice Finance in Yorkshire and Humber, said: “Our findings suggest that many local SMEs do not feel adequately equipped for the future and that many are concerned that finding staff with the appropriate skills will be a challenge.

“A recent paper published by 02, The Future Digital Skills Needs of the UK Economy, estimates that there is a requirement for almost three quarters of a million (745,000) additional workers with digital skills to meet the rising demand from employers and fuel the UK economy during the next three years.

“With this in mind, we need to explore how Yorkshire and Humber companies can be prepared to compete in a digital global economy. Perhaps it is becoming necessary for businesses to look towards the younger generation to help address the growing skills gap.”