Shaping the Future Workforce: The Greater Manchester Local Skills Improvement Plan

Are You Ready to Shape the Future Talent Landscape?

Picture yourself sifting through a mountain of CVs, fumbling to find that perfect gem—talented, skilled, and just right for your business. Sounds familiar? The truth is, many employers find it increasingly challenging to locate candidates with the right skills. But what if I told you that now is the perfect time to change that narrative? The GM Local Skills Improvement Plan is back, and it’s not just another initiative. It’s our chance to make a lasting impact on the talent landscape in Greater Manchester.

What Is the GM Local Skills Improvement Plan?

The GM Local Skills Improvement Plan, or LSIP for short, is spearheaded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce. It’s all about empowering us—the employers. We get the chance to voice our needs and expectations, ensuring that the skills we require are being taught and developed in our future workforce.

This is crucial, as more than 3,000 employers are already on board, contributing valuable insights. We’re making progress in key areas like digital skills, green jobs, and essential leadership training. But here’s the kicker: this isn’t the finish line. We must keep pushing forward.

Why Is This Important for Employers?

Let’s face it: the skills gap isn’t going away. As advancements in technology and shifts in market needs evolve, our workforce must keep pace. So, what does that mean for us? We need to identify the actual skills gaps within our industries and share this information. The LSIP gives us a platform to demand and guide training that aligns not just with our aspirations but also with our current business needs.

And here’s a thought: imagine having a steady stream of well-trained candidates who are genuinely prepared for meaningful jobs. That’s not just a win for us as employers; it’s a win for the community too. We’re talking about securing the future of not just our businesses, but the economy of Greater Manchester as a whole.

How Can You Get Involved?

This is where it gets interesting. The next phase of the LSIP requires our voices. It’s vital to ensure that the skills system being developed is based on real feedback. It’s not enough to rely on assumptions anymore. We need to actively contribute our insights, opinions, and experiences to shape this initiative into something truly transformative.

So, how do you participate? That’s the best part. It starts with engaging in conversation—both in your workplace and in wider community forums. Reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce. Join discussions, attend workshops, and make sure your voice is heard. Your insights matter. They could be the key to bridging the skills gap.

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