Wolverhampton bosses target creating job opportunities for locals - report
Employment and education bosses in Wolverhampton say they are working to deliver more job opportunities specifically for locals in the city’s growing digital and creative sectors.
In a report that will go before the council’s economy and growth scrutiny panel next week, head of policy and strategy Laura Collings said it was one of its priorities to ensure local people have full access to new opportunities in the city – and that employers can source a talent pipeline that meets their needs.
She said: “89 per cent of our city’s schools are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted and we are delivering first-class learning facilities through the new City Learning Quarter. There are growing sectors in digital, creative industries and professional services bringing new jobs in, as well as established clusters in advanced manufacturing and aerospace.
“Thousands of fantastic employment opportunities in our foundational sectors of health and social care, hospitality and retail and logistics – which provide vital services to local people – are available.
“Also, the city is a national leader in low-carbon research and development through the new National Brownfield Institute at the University of Wolverhampton. However, some of our residents find it harder than others to access learning and work opportunities.” she added.
“There remain areas of challenge. This strategy sets out how working alongside our partners we can leverage our collective influence to improve skill levels and employment outcomes for local people. Across our communities, employers and partners there is a common desire to build a system where children, young people and adults thrive, which adopts a whole life approach to learning and work, where children are ready to learn, achieve well and attain good numeracy and literacy skills.
“A consultation process on this strategy will be held throughout June, July and August to gain further input on our proposed priorities.
"This will include focus groups and workshops with young people and the city’s youth council, refugees and migrants, equality groups, adult learners and public sector partners. In addition, there will be a digital survey to give all residents and stakeholders the opportunity to provide their views.”
The council’s economy and growth panel will discuss the report next Wednesday, June 21.
