Employer engagement: the role of Local Employment Partnerships Karen Mitchell, LEP Project Team Leader, Jobcentre Plus

Background to LEP 2007 Budget - 5 retailers (Tesco, Sainsbury, ASDA, B&Q and M&S). In work, better off Green Paper in July extended to all sectors. Aim: 250,000 people into work by the end of 2010.

The Deal Employers agree to give people a fair shot at the job Government ensures disadvantaged customers get preparation and support enabling them to meet employers’ needs and expectations; and Jobcentre Plus individually tailors recruitment support for employers Agree local arrangements

LEP Progress to date 500 committed employers (more than 50% implementing) 90 employers already recruited 2,000+ disadvantaged jobless people in work Sector Employability Toolkits in 9 key sectors

Outstanding challenges Right employers, right location Making national agreements work locally Developing provision for England, Wales & Scotland Involving other partners Translating employer engagement into outcomes

Working with partners Building on the labour market knowledge of existing players inc. Coalitions/Fair Cities Building on the expertise of existing players in working with employers, and utilising existing employer networks Building on existing knowledge of relevant provision - use by employers or groups of employers inc. SMEs Working with DIUS/LSC and devolved administrations to develop work-focused and accessible provision