This webinar explores what the evidence tells us about effective retraining at the local level. It considers the features of successful retraining programmes, including the role of employers, links to local labour market opportunities, and the wider support that needs to be in place.
UK workers need to increasingly consider job mobility, as a result of a more rapidly changing labour market and longer working lives. Up to three million UK jobs in declining occupations could disappear by 2035 due to factors such as artificial intelligence, automation and the transition to a greener economy. Local areas are also experiencing labour market challenges such as an ageing workforce and changing migration patterns. Retraining has an important role to play in helping people adapt to these changes, supporting those in work to move into new roles or sectors, and helping people who are out of work to build skills that match local labour market demand.
The webinar will be of interest to policy, delivery and evaluation teams working on employment, skills and economic development within local government and Mayoral Strategic Authorities, as well as training providers and partner organisations. It shares practical insights for local stakeholders seeking to strengthen retraining provision and support residents to access the skills they need for current and future jobs. This webinar is part of the Department for Work and Pensions’ Labour Market Evidence Programme, which aims to help local policymakers better understand what works in improving labour market outcomes for out-of-work and in-work individuals.
The webinar includes contributions from:
- Jim Riccio, Principal Research Fellow at MDRC
- Simon Joos, Work and Skills Specialist at Manchester City Council
- Patrick Milnes, Head of Policy for People and Work, British Chamber of Commerce
- Elizabeth Gerard, Deputy Director, L&W
- Dr Jess Elmore, Head of Employment and Better Work, L&W
