Fixing the skills crisis

The key to the success of the government’s ambitious plans for the economy and improved public services, is the supply of skilled workers for eight key priority industrial sectors, and public services, particularly the NHS. So, the Industry Forum was delighted that Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills was able join us today to lead a roundtable on, ‘Fixing the skills crisis.’ The meeting was hosted by Checkatrade, and Benjamin Bell their Director of Corporate Affairs welcomed the minister and guests to the meeting at their Kings Cross HQ. It was clear that the skills strategy is a vital component of the soon-to-be-revealed industrial strategy which will encompass the delivery of net zero emissions, increased defence spending and major infrastructure investments - all programmes that will need specialist skilled workers, and provide well-paid jobs. A previously piecemeal approach to skills which confused many business people is being transformed into a framework of initiatives which will aid understanding by young people entering work, and businesses that need predictability of skilled labour supply in order to justify investments.