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"Key solution measures need to include a stronger role for local government to help ensure the local offer at post-16 improves, and a focus on a place-based integrated service that enables us to tailor provision to the needs of our local young people."

“Councils continually strive to improve the professional lives of everyone in their workforce and it is crucial that local government is involved in the raft of forthcoming secondary legislation which is expected to follow the passing of the Employment Rights Act."

“We agree with the report’s recommendations that powers and resources should be devolved, and that the number of trailblazers should be increased so more areas can test new approaches.”

Cllr Tom Hunt, Chair of the LGA’s Inclusive Growth Committee, said: “Integrating Jobcentre Plus (JCP) with the national careers service (NCS) is a significant reform that must lead to a more seamless service for people looking to move into, and progress in work, as well as for employers looking to recruit."   

“We look forward to further details from the Government as they step towards a more localised way of delivering employment and skills services and working with them to plan how these changes will work in practice.”

We need a radical shift in the top-down, centralised approach we use to match people with jobs and this interim report’s findings are a positive first step towards achieving this

“Every area has its own unique labour market. Councils want to unlock this potential talent, using their unrivalled local insight to bring employers, training providers and jobseekers together with their proven track record in delivering more for less."

Chantelle Holt from North Norfolk District Council has been named as the 2022 Local Government Apprentice of the Year.

“The Government’s ‘one size fits all’ national approach to employment and skills is no longer fit for purpose. Councils and combined authorities – who know their communities best – want to be front and centre in ensuring everyone has the chance to learn new skills and find work, in good jobs needed by local businesses, in the places where they live.” 

“Everyone should have the chance to find work or a chance to retrain, no matter where they live, particularly as we continue our recovery from the pandemic."