Skills in North East Lincolnshire: next steps

The Council’s Economy and Growth team, in collaboration with local training providers, recently invited local people to share their views. The survey focused on uncovering how residents currently discover learning opportunities, which communication channels they trust, as well as the challenges that stand in the way.

The team is grateful for those who took part in the survey and wishes to thank everyone who contributed to this important conversation.

Key findings from the survey include:

• The majority of respondents prefer to learn online, from the comfort of their own homes.
• Common barriers to training include lack of awareness of local offers, as well as challenges related to physical and mental health and disabilities.
• Barriers to employment also highlighted physical and mental health issues, alongside a lack of confidence.

These insights will directly inform the Council’s skills provision for the future and will be reflected in the updated Skills Strategy next year.

Residents are encouraged to explore existing programmes such as the Adult Careers Team’s careerShift. This connects participants with local employers from various sectors as well as offering holistic support through self-evaluation, personal wellbeing and financial management, including counselling and physical training if needed.

careerShift is designed to inspire self-reflection and learning, helping residents explore new roles and industries they may not have previously considered. It also tackles many of the barriers highlighted in the recent survey. Participant Linda shared her experience: “The holistic nature of the course was great. I’ve now started swimming while on the course, and it’s really helped with some of the health issues I had.” Her story highlights the programme’s wider impact beyond just employment.

Amy Rogers, Skills and Employment Lead at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are grateful to everyone who shared their experiences and views. This feedback is invaluable in helping us shape a Skills Strategy that meets the needs of our community. By working together, we can break down barriers and create accessible, meaningful pathways to employment and growth.”

Councillor Philip Jackson, Leader and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Devolution, Economy and Skills, added: “We want to say our thank you for these responses. The residents of North East Lincolnshire are crucial in everything we do and their opinion matters the most to us.

“Our skills provision is essential for helping people discover industries that are up and coming in the Humber area, from renewables to engineering. These people are the future and we want to make sure they have the best chance to achieve their goals.”

For more information about adult learning in North East Lincolnshire, including upcoming events, training, and local providers, visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/adult-education-and-learning.

To learn more or book a place on the careerShift programme, contact the Adult Careers Team on 01472 324587.