Driving Workforce Development: Empowering Employers Through the LSIP

The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Surrey and Mid North Hampshire continues to thrive, serving as a vital connection between employers, further education colleges, and independent training providers. This initiative ensures that the workforce is equipped with the right skills to meet employers’ needs.

Employer engagement is at the heart of the LSIP. Maintaining an environment where employers’ voices are heard is essential. The Future Skills Hub plays a pivotal role in this, offering critical resources for both employers and providers. One of its standout features is the Opportunities Page, a central hub for collaboration and networking.

The Opportunities Page is a versatile resource for employers and providers. Providers can easily post opportunities, such as:

• Advertising facilities or equipment.
• Hosting functions or events.
• Offering industry placements.
• Sharing expertise with students.

Employers can browse these listings and connect directly with providers for collaboration. This tool empowers employers to take the initiative in shaping the future workforce.

Employers can further engage with the LSIP by completing the online Commitment Form. This form allows employers to specify their preferred ways to contribute, including:

• Offering student placements.
• Providing work shadowing for teachers.
• Delivering workplace expertise talks to students.
• Meeting curriculum specialists to share sector knowledge.
• Hosting group visits to their premises.

These forms are linked with opportunities shared on the Opportunities Page, ensuring that employers are matched with providers to find the most suitable collaborations, considering factors like location, sector and preferences.

Both commitment forms and the Opportunities Page have already facilitated numerous collaborations between employers and providers, connecting a diverse range of businesses with training institutions.

To get involved, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Future Skills Hub website.
2. Explore the Opportunities Page to post or browse opportunities.
3. Submit a commitment form to outline your preferred level of involvement.
4. Follow up with the Surrey Chambers team for further engagement.

Collaboration is the cornerstone of the LSIP. By utilizing the tools and resources available through the Future Skills Hub, employers can actively shape Surrey and Hampshire’s future workforce. An employer’s input is crucial to addressing skill gaps and ensuring the region’s workforce remains competitive.

Start making a difference today by visiting the Future Skills Hub or contacting the LSIP team at lsip@surrey-chambers.co.uk. Together, we can shape a brighter future for Surrey and Hampshire.