The union wants to engage members in learning and personal and professional development. This two year project started in April 2006.

The UK ICT industry faces rapid and constant changes in global markets, which makes high demands on skills in the workforce. Naturally the issue is important to unions, employees and employers alike since fast technological changes alone mean that renewing and improving skills is essential.

On the one hand employees are faced with increasing demands to keep up with the industry, but questions about future employability are important as well. It is therefore in Prospect's interest to follow and influence the learning and development in the workplace and support members in their aspirations to progress at work. Learning can also open a door to a better balance between work and life outside work. With ULRs' advice members can be closer to fulfilling their personal ambitions or interests - whether it is learning a new language or ballroom dancing.

During the project the ULR role will be developed. Connect Sector-specific ULR training has been launched and a growing network of ULRs is being built.

The Connect Sector's project has been funded by the government's Union Learning Fund (ULF). A steering group supports and evaluates the project.