Scottish Union Learning defines Everyday Skills as the language, literacy, numeracy and basic IT, digital skills and increasingly cyber security skills required both in the workplace and at home.  Everyday Skills activity also includes English language learning for those who do not have English as their first language, and support for learners who may be neurodivergent, or have other learning difficulties and disabilities. Everyday Skills promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Scottish Union Learning promotes Everyday Skills activity through Development Fund and Learning Fund Projects, Everyday Skills Events, Learning Conferences, STUC Equalities Committees, Health & Safety networks and ULR Development Days. Scottish Union Learning works with Scottish Government, and other external partners to raise awareness of Everyday Skills needs and suitable means of support. 

Everyday Skills Group

Through the Scottish Union Learning Everyday Skills Group which meets quarterly, unions are encouraged to engage with relevant Scottish Government strategies and are supported in participating in national initiatives such as Adult Learners’ Week, Book Week Scotland, Dyslexia Awareness Week and Maths Week Scotland.   The Group is comprised of members from affiliated unions, Scottish Union Learning, TUC Education, Dyslexia Scotland, and the Workers’ Educational Association. The Group meets quarterly to discuss all aspects related to workplace literacies, digital participation, cyber resilience, dyslexia and additional learning and support needs.  More recent developments include providing information and opportunities to develop Artificial Intelligence, Environmental and Green Skills. The Group is also responsible for contributing to the planning of the annual Everyday Skills Event.