More than £64 million is being invested in skills and employment programmes this year, aiming to help people across the East Midlands gain qualifications, develop new skills, and transition into work or new careers. The investment, spearheaded by the Mayor of the East Midlands through the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), supports individuals at various career stages, from young people seeking their first job to adults looking to change careers, re-enter the workforce, or enhance their existing skills.
Key programmes include the Adult Skills Fund, Skills Bootcamps, and the Youth Guarantee. Early results show significant impact, with over 300 young people already securing jobs, further education, or training through the initial Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme. Additionally, one in four participants in Skills Bootcamps have reported improved career prospects, leading to new jobs, promotions, or new contracts.
“"Having the right skills can make a real difference to people’s lives. For a young person, it can mean getting that first job. For someone who has been out of work, it can give them a way back in. And for someone who wants a change, it can give them the skills to take their career in a new direction."
Mayor Claire Ward highlighted the transformative power of skills, stating, “We’re putting money into training that leads to real jobs and working closely with colleges, employers and local organisations to ensure people can get the support they need. There are already some really positive results, with young people moving into jobs, education and training and adults gaining new skills. I want more people across the East Midlands to have that same chance, and to see this investment making a difference in their everyday lives.”
The Youth Guarantee aims to provide young people with access to education, training, or employment opportunities. Seven additional Youth Guarantee projects, valued at nearly £4 million, are set to commence in the coming months. The Careers Hub collaborates with schools and colleges to guide young people in understanding their future options and making informed decisions.
For adults, the Adult Skills Fund supports individuals in acquiring qualifications and skills demanded by local employers, including through the Free Courses for Jobs initiative. Approximately 21.8 per cent of learners in EMCCA’s adult skills programme reside in the 10 per cent most deprived areas within the East Midlands. Skills Bootcamps offer short, adaptable courses designed around employer needs, equipping individuals with skills for areas with job demand.
Additional support is provided through Connect to Work for individuals facing barriers to employment, and Connected Futures assists young people requiring extra help to progress towards education, training, or employment.
These programmes are being delivered in partnership with colleges, training providers, employers, councils, and other local organisations. This investment is part of 187 schemes currently underway through EMCCA, with a total value of almost £320 million. The progress of these initiatives will be reviewed by the EMCCA Board next week as part of its first consolidated report on delivery against the Mayor’s Corporate Plan. The report consolidates 60 delivery commitments across six corporate plan ambitions, including nine focused on skills for good work, providing the Board with a comprehensive view of EMCCA's programmes and regional activities.
The performance report will be discussed at the next meeting of the EMCCA Board on Monday 12 October at 11am, held at EMCCA’s headquarters in Chesterfield town centre. Further details are available at https://democracy.eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk.
