News

Yesterday Solace published an Initial Position Statement on Skills and Local Economic Growth. This is a statement from Martin Swales, Chief Executive of South Tyneside MBC and Solace Spokesperson on Economic Growth and Housing:

Yesterday Solace launched its new paper on skills and local economic growth with the clear message that ‘Only by maximizing skills outcomes will we successfully grow local economies’.

The paper was developed by Tom Stannard, Director of Economy and Skills at Oldham Council and Solace Deputy Spokesperson for Economic Growth, with significant and valuable input from the Local Government sector as well as our private sector partners Prospects, Lloyds and Grant Thornton.

It sets out the skills and employment challenges facing local authorities but importantly provides some practical advice for those working in this sector. It is an initial position statement, distributed for consultation and Solace welcomes feedback and further examples of regional and local best practice that can support colleagues in their attempts to navigate and influence this complex area locally.

Skills are critical to the success of our local growth ambitions, and therefore to the UK’s economic growth prospects. The skills landscape has significantly changed over recent years; the move toward a more marketised system, where there is a diverse range of providers and where employers and individuals are empowered to use the system in the way that they feel is right for them.

Local Government will have a central role to play supporting all stakeholders – providers, employers, and individuals – in navigating this complex landscape. Through strengthening our capacity and understanding at a local level, we will be better placed to influence and drive partnerships that improve skills and employment outcomes. This will provide us with the very best chance of securing sustainable and inclusive growth locally and nationally.