§ 34. Dr. PalmerTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what he is doing to encourage an increase in labour force skills by means of workplace training. [63421]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownWe offer a range of work-based training opportunities to ensure that long-term unemployed and economically inactive people have the skills and experience they need to find and remain in work.
Work-based training is an important element in the New Deals and the Work-Based Learning for Adults programme. These offer participants real work experience with employers and the opportunity to develop job-related skills.
We are working closely with employers to ensure that their skill needs are met. For example, we are introducing Ambition programmes to enable people to gain the right skills through work experience and undertaking training designed by employers. Ambition programmes will engage with key sectors such as construction, retail, information technology and energy.
We, and colleagues at the Department for Education and Skills and the Department for Trade and Industry, have asked the Regional Development Agencies to lead in the development of the Framework for Regional Employment & Skills Action (FRESA). This strategic partnership of organisations includes Jobcentre Plus, the CBI, the TUC, the Learning and Skills Council and local authorities. FRESAs will promote a collaborative, proactive approach to employment and skills in regions.
87WThey will give a clear focus to what is needed to ensure that each region has a wide range of job opportunities and a workforce with the skills employers require.