Growth of local groups stimulates local economies

One of the drivers of success for the LSPA has been the creation and development of local groups in 2006.

Employers, business leaders and local business support organisations have grouped together to identify skills and recruitment issues at a local level, and this has enabled the LSPA to respond quickly to the local needs of employers. Importantly, the growth of local groups has helped the Partners of the LSPA to raise awareness of the advice and support available from the public sector.

Two local groups which stand out from the crowd are, the North Hampshire local group led by Dick Oram, Managing Director of Murata Electronics with active support from the Chamber of Commerce as well as the local authority and other employers - notably Baker Tilley and Clysdale Bank. And the Isle of Wight local group.

These two local groups alone have delivered a great deal within a short space of time. It was the direct feedback from LSPA members in North Hampshire, for example, which led to the creation of the first North Hampshire Skillfest held in March 2007. It also boosted activity in the retail sector and business services sectors. On the Isle of Wight activity surrounding the preparation of young people for the world of work has become one of the first areas for the group to tackle. Andrew Preskey of Connexions, and one of the founders of the Isle of Wight Group, explains:

"This is a new concept of the public sector having a close dialogue with businesses. If an innovative approach such as this can boost the Island's economy, and prove a plus for local people, then we will have achieved our goals." For further information on how to join a local group please contact LSPA Manager Peter Grant on 01489 558597 or email peter.grant@lsc.gov.uk.