News

Nearly nine million people who are economically inactive risk being left out of the labour market for even longer due to a complex patchwork of disconnected national schemes.

We need a radical shift in the top-down, centralised approach we use to match people with jobs and this interim report’s findings are a positive first step towards achieving this

Skills shortages could last longer just as demand increases and dedicated European funding ends, the Local Government Association warns.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential by upskilling or retraining to find and progress in jobs, with local councils best placed to connect them, working alongside businesses and our vital training organisations."

“It is great news for all those in adult education that the Government has decided to continue funding for courses beyond just focusing on employment, recognising the wider benefits that community learning brings, which we and other bodies such as Holex have been calling for."

Given the right powers and resources over employment and skills funding for every place, councils could build on their track record of helping get people back into work.

“Every area has its own unique labour market. Councils want to unlock this potential talent, using their unrivalled local insight to bring employers, training providers and jobseekers together with their proven track record in delivering more for less."

Chantelle Holt from North Norfolk District Council has been named as the 2022 Local Government Apprentice of the Year.

“The Government’s ‘one size fits all’ national approach to employment and skills is no longer fit for purpose. Councils and combined authorities – who know their communities best – want to be front and centre in ensuring everyone has the chance to learn new skills and find work, in good jobs needed by local businesses, in the places where they live.” 

“Everyone should have the chance to find work or a chance to retrain, no matter where they live, particularly as we continue our recovery from the pandemic."