Minutes:
The Chair invited Jasbir Jhas (Senior Adviser) to discuss recent activity around employment. In her update Jasbir noted the following points;
- Noted that Paragraph 1 of the report alongside Annex A outline the current LGA position. Jasbir requested specific comments from members on this.
- Discussed the development of a DWP led programme for Long Term Unemployed people, which is expected to override a range of programmes run at a local level.
- Noted that the LGA submitted evidence to a consultation process but is still awaiting a formal response from the DWP. The submission emphasised the importance of appropriate contracting areas to enable proper integration of provisions for LTU.
- A joint meeting between the Minister for Employment and the Lead Members of the People & Places and City Regions Boards.
- Existing Adult Education budgets need to be maximised to provide greatest value for money.
- Further Education White Paper has been slightly delayed. Expected to propose a greater role for local colleges, including an accountability role for other community providers.
- Asked for comments from members on the specific actions recommended on paragraphs 7-9.
In the subsequent discussion the following points were raised by members;
- Members broadly expressed support for the actions recommended by officers in Paragraphs 8 and 9.
- Importance of local involvement in delivery to communities was highlighted, with concerns expressed that the Government are not considering such.
- The Chair stressed that health should be given equal importance to skills training in considerations around LTU programmes.
- Members agreed that the LGA should lobby for a greater role for local authorities in the commissioning and accountability of Adult Education provision.
- While members voiced support for an expanded role for colleges within Adult Education, it was noted that accountability should sit with democratically accountable councils.
- Determining which sectors would see skills investment was seen to be important in order to support existing and emergent industries.
- Engaging with innovative funding models was emphasised, with the Social Impact Bond model and DfE Innovation Fund highlighted as examples.
The Chair summarised noting that there was broad agreement with the approach presented by officers in the report.
Decision
The members of the City Regions Board noted the report and agreed with the approach presented by officers in paragraphs 7-9.
Action
Officers to proceed in line with members comments.