BCC Co-Executive Director Hannah Essex comments on the government's announcement that firms in England in the leisure, arts and beauty sectors will be allowed to reopen from 11 July.
Multiple changes to the skills system, varying quality training and resources and an evolving working environment mean that UK business struggle to find the right people for their teams. Chamber research shows that over half of UK businesses say the time taken to fill average vacancies is longer than five years ago.
The Chamber Network is working with government, businesses, academics and employees to address these crucial issues by focusing on three key areas:
This UK-wide, policy-led Commission will create a strategy to make the skills system work better for business. It will focus on:
Our Commissioners are high profile, influential thinkers and leaders in their field and in the skills arena.
The Commission’s first Call for Evidence is now closed. Contact Jane Gratton for more information.
February sees the launch of Business Showcase Days! This national initiative will open the doors of Chambers and businesses to their local communities, providing a chance for people to see first-hand the range of different career paths on offer in local businesses.
Chambers tell us that businesses across the UK are struggling to attract and retain homegrown talent, and that school and college leavers aren’t aware of the job prospects in local firms. Chambers of Commerce are uniquely placed to help their local communities thrive and introduce them to the career opportunities in local companies.
Business Showcase Days will also help Chambers build connections with local schools and colleges and position Chambers at the forefront of harnessing and developing local talent.
For more information and to get involved, please contact Faye Busby.
The third phase of the campaign will be to support business in the recruitment and retention of a skilled and diverse workforce. Our research found a 39% increase in the number of employees requesting flexible working arrangements compared to two years ago. To be launched in 2020, the flexible working initiative will provide firms with the guidance and resources to create modern, flexible working environments for all employees.
The focus is to enable firms to recruit from a wider talent pool and retain workers who might otherwise leave the business by helping firms establish their own flexible working policies.
Together our campaign will celebrate, support and develop the people at the heart of our business community.
There are numerous ways to get involved, so get in touch with the Chamber team today!
BCC Co-Executive Director Hannah Essex comments on the government's announcement that firms in England in the leisure, arts and beauty sectors will be allowed to reopen from 11 July.
BCC Head of People Policy Jane Gratton comments on the Education Secretary's speech today on plans to reform Further Education at the Social Market Foundation.
BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall comments on the Chancellor's Summer Statement, announced today.
BCC Co-Executive Director Claire Walker comments on the announcement of the government’s Kickstart Scheme, allowing employers to offer government-subsidised work placements for young people aged between 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
