An extensive research project intended to strengthen the relationship between employers and training providers in the Liverpool City Region (LCR) has been published.
The Liverpool City Region Local Skills Improvement Plan includes the findings and recommendations from the in-depth business research that was undertaken over a period of seven months by the five Chambers of Commerce in the LCR.
Lesley Martin-Wright, Chief Executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce said:
“The Local Skills Improvement Plan aims to place employers at the heart of the training and skills system, and I want to take this opportunity to thank every business that contributed and helped the Liverpool City Region Chambers to produce this report.
“The research uncovered the skills that local employers require but often struggle to find. Being able to access suitably qualified and skilled staff is paramount for economic growth and commercial success.”
Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said:
“The Plan will support economic growth and boost productivity in Knowsley and the whole Liverpool City Region, now and in the foreseeable future. A skills system which is responsive to business needs will result in more jobs and better paid jobs for local people.”
Next steps
A two-year roadmap has been outlined in the plan that will help to inform local Colleges and Independent Training Providers on how they shape their provision. They will work in tandem with the Liverpool City Region Employment and Skills Board, who will become the main strategic forum to secure achievement of actions across all partners.
Lesley added:
“A consistent theme that emerged from our consultation with city region employers was the importance of young people being able to demonstrate work-readiness so that the transition from education into the workplace was more seamless.
“Employers were also keen to identify short courses that will upskill current employees in new techniques.”
A skills event will be held in the Autumn providing an opportunity for businesses, colleges and training providers to get together and discuss the priorities and recommendations outlined in the Plan. Details will be available soon from Knowsley Chamber.
More information
Businesses in Knowsley that wish to get involved with shaping the local skills provision, or finding the training that is right for them should contact Lesley Martin-Wright, Chief Executive, Knowsley Chamber of Commerce.
You can read the Liverpool City Region Local Skills Improvement Plan.
The Liverpool City Region Local Skills Improvement Plan is funded by the Department for Education with the aim of giving business a stronger voice in shaping local skills provision.