Hampshire Chamber of Commerce wins business-boosting talent development contract
The Hampshire Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a significant government contract worth £500,000 to provide companies in the county with the additional skills they need to thrive and prosper in what is clearly a very difficult time for business.
Ministers have appointed the independent business membership organisation as the 'employer representation body' in charge of the Solent's local skills improvement strategy (LSIP).
The Chamber will leverage its current influence and understanding of the local business ecosystem in order to bring stakeholders together to address long-standing skill problems and shortages, according to the strategy.
Employers, colleges, universities, local governments, the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and other business organisations will collaborate to better connect labour market requirements with training and skills support programmes.
Ross McNally is Hampshire Chamber’s Chief Executive and Executive Chairman. He had this to say about the scheme: “In successive member surveys we have done over the past decade, skills gaps have been cited as one of the most pressing issues for SMEs."
“Now, in leading the local skills improvement plan, we have the opportunity to truly make a difference and enhance the essential workplace skills needed by businesses. We will work with our partners to help all sectors in Hampshire including marine, engineering, digital, creative, hospitality and healthcare – any industry where employers are articulating a need for better skills. And we will do this is in an inclusive way, reaching out to diverse business communities and supporting greater sustainability on the journey to net zero."
“This is all about creating a managed framework of learning pathways and a business-led community of practice in developing skills.”
For more information on Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and the scheme, call 01329 242420 or visit www.hampshirechamber.co.uk.
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