The Marches LEP maintains oversight of the local skills agenda and supports understanding of the areas’ labour market and skills issues, driving engagement with local employers and liaison with training providers
Prior to establishing Employer Representative Bodies (ERBs) in April 2023, the Department of Education (DfE) funded LEPs, through their Skills Advisory Panel, to undertake detailed analysis of local labour markets. The Marches LEP, through extensive consultation with partners, developed a Local Skills Report incorporating an action plan detailing how key priorities were being addressed. The report, which sets out local strengths and skills needs aligned with the Marches LEP Strategic Economic Plan, was refreshed in January 2022 to encompass the Marches Economic Recovery Plan and take account of the changing policy landscape.
The Skills and Post-16 Education Act 2022 made provision for the creation of ERBs as part of government’s intent to place employers at the centre of the skills system, to compile Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) relating to further education. The LEP provided support to the Marches ERB in producing and progressing the area’s LSIP.
The Local Skills Report forms a key part of the underpinning evidence base for the Marches Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) compiled by the Marches Employer Representative Body (ERB).
The LEP has been proactive in attracting funding to support training and skills development projects for example the Energy Training Centre.
As part of our commitment to supporting business, a dedicated skills portal has been developed to assist employers looking for providers and courses for their workforces.
Click here to visit the The Marches Skills Search website.