Insurers convene to tackle skills crisis – AutoRaise proposes new alliance model 

AutoRaise is forging a new path in the skills conversation – starting with those who fund the future. 

AutoRaise recently brought together leading insurers for an exclusive meeting to discuss the sector’s critical skills shortage. Hosted as part of the charity’s strategic evolution, the session marked the first in a proposed series of events aimed at building a stronger, more transparent partnership between AutoRaise and the businesses whose funding drives its impact. 

The conversation was wide-ranging and candid. Emma Speed, Managing Director of AutoRaise, and Chair Simon Smith outlined the charity’s renewed approach – prioritising measurable outcomes, cross-sector alignment, and a revamped bursary model designed to unlock opportunities for apprentices across the country. 

Attendees were invited to help shape a newly proposed Insurer Alliance: a more collaborative and accountable way of working together, giving insurers a clearer line of sight on where their funding goes, and more influence over future initiatives. 

“We’re asking for more than support – we’re offering real partnership,” said Emma. “This isn’t a cheque and a thank-you. It’s a shared mission to fix the pipeline problem and secure the future of our industry.” 

The proposed Alliance will provide members with regular reporting on outcomes, early access to data and updates, and the opportunity to be part of strategic decisions around bursary allocation and programme design. It will also aim to better align insurer support with real-world workforce challenges – ensuring funds flow where they are most needed, and that stories of impact are visible throughout the supply chain. 

Initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with several attendees expressing their intention to be involved in shaping the model further. 

Simon added: “AutoRaise is not just evolving – we’re inviting the sector to evolve with us. That starts by rebuilding trust and making collaboration the norm.” 

AutoRaise will now begin formalising the structure of the Alliance, with further engagement planned for Q3.