A series of forums are being held across Somerset in the coming weeks to give employers the chance to let education providers and the Government know the skills they need for the future success of their businesses.

As part of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which is being spearheaded in the county by Somerset Chamber of Commerce, the consultation events will enable employers to have their say on the future of the skills provision in Somerset.

The most local forum will be held on Wednesday, February 8: 10am – 12pm at the Ammerdown Conference and Retreat Centre, Radstock, BA3 5SW.

The full list of forums can be found on the Devon and Somerset LSIP website.

The Somerset LSIP was officially launched at Taunton and Pickeridge Golf Club earlier this month. Funded by the Department for Education, one of the first steps is understanding why businesses struggle to recruit and which skills are in short supply.

Emma Rawlings, Chief Executive of the Somerset Chamber, said: “Our Local Skills Improvement Plan is all about placing employers at the heart of defining local skills needs, and it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Somerset and Devon businesses to have their say.

“The in-depth findings of this work will help us to ensure skills delivered by our universities, colleges and training providers match what businesses require for the future.

“We have been hearing the region’s businesses say they are being held back by a lack of skilled staff and the right courses to train existing employees – this plan offers the opportunity for employers to have their say and shape the skills provision of the future.”

The Devon and Somerset LSIP team will work with universities, colleges and training providers to ensure the voice of employers is at the forefront of a skills agenda that meets the needs of our economies.

More information is available on the website https://devonandsomersetlsip.co.uk/