Agenda item

Paul provided an update on the ongoing issues related to local areas accessing the European Social Fund (ESF) due to capacity issues at the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). He highlighted the success the LGA has had in the media in drawing attention to the capacity issues of the DWP. He said that progress has since been made in meeting 2018 ESF targets but there are concerns for 2019, which the LGA will continue to pursue so areas do not lose essential skills and employment funding. He reiterated that should there be “no deal” the Government has committed to provide funding for the whole 2014-20 ESIF programme, and projects will be subject to a value for money test.

Paul updated members that there has been no further progress on the consultation or detail of the success arrangements for EU Funding – the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). He said that the UKSPF Consultation is due to be published late December 2018, but this is not confirmed because of the uncertainties of Brexit. The LGA will continue to prepare for the consultation to ensure the strongest case for a place based, localised fund is put forward.  

-       Members discussed the importance of funding and the need for there to be a well-managed transition from EU funding to UKSPF. 

-       Members discussed the consultation needed to make the case for Local Industrial Strategies to reflect desired local economic outcomes.  Members stated that all stakeholders need to work together, and that social mobility is key to ensure that UKSPF delivers the desired increase in productivity. 

-       Members discussed skills shortages, and how the local government sector has been raising this with central government for numerous years.

-       The Chair concluded that UKSPF should be a localised, place based fund that meets current challenges that local areas are facing. 

Action

-       Members noted the update.