Publications

Based on our analysis and discussions with local government, through a series of roundtable events, this paper sets out below six guiding principles to realise economic inclusion to employment and skills opportunities, and the key role we would like to see local government play.

We commissioned Shared intelligence (Si) to produce this guide explaining what local economic development (ED) services do for the communities they serve, why they are important, the challenges they face, and the skills and knowledge they will need in the coming years.

Using the principles of Work Local, this policy position sets out how this relationship could operate, bringing together net zero and the skills system to align and collectively develop the green skills and jobs that are needed.

Three focus groups made up of Economic Development Officers were held between December 2022 and January 2023 to explore how councils are working to improve equalities in employment and skills outcomes to encourage economic development for their communities. The groups aimed to develop understanding by capturing the thoughts and experiences of those working to advance this agenda.

The Local Government Association (LGA) Research & Information Team conducted a survey to capture data on key elements of English local authorities’ employment and skills provision. This included local partnerships, the services being provided, and funding.

Improving adult skills is vital to individual progression in work and to the productive growth of the economy. The LGA commissioned this study, by the Heseltine Institute at the University of Liverpool, to evidence the continuing need for improved adult skills and the contribution of local government to delivering inclusive, economically relevant and place-based training.

The Local Government Association commissioned Shared Intelligence to deliver a series of case studies drawing on lessons learnt from the Community Renewal Fund.

The LGA commissioned Learning and Work Institute to look at the potential economic, fiscal and social benefits of improving employment and skills outcomes in different types of geographies.

The LGA commissioned the Institute for Employment studies to undertake an analysis of differences between local labour markets in England.

The LGA's positive vision for an integrated and devolved employment and skills service.