Phoenix : Insights comments on the Government’s Lifelong Loan Entitlement scheme

Catherine Foot, Director of longevity think tank Phoenix Insights, comments on the Government's Lifelong Loan Entitlement scheme:<_u53a_p>

"We welcome this landmark commitment to lifelong learning from the Government. Today's announcement will support many people, including those over 40 who are looking to reskill or retrain. <_u53a_p>

"Our research also shows that breaking down barriers to lifelong learning could help reverse the concerning trend of over 50s dropping out of the labour market, providing greater opportunities for them to find more fulfilling work again.<_u53a_p>

"We believe that today's announcement will increase productivity, accelerate growth and enable people to stay in fulfilling work for longer, so they can continue to earn an income and save for their future. <_u53a_p>

"However, it is vital that workers receive real assurances from employers and the Government that returning to education again will pay off for them in the medium and long term, as many will have a range of both practical and financial commitments.

"A critical factor in encouraging people to take up this opportunity will be using data linking courses to local vacancies, and strengthening the connection between the Higher and Further Education sector and employers so that people know the courses they are taking lead to good jobs and better opportunities for them in the future."

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