Chamber launches skills drive
A NEW drive to improve skills has been launched by businesses in Yorkshire as new research shows large numbers of firms are struggling to find the right staff.
A survey by the Leeds, York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce with Leeds University Business School found that 40% of business are having problems recruiting people with the skills they need.
Profitability confidence amongst businesses facing skills shortages is 22% weaker than other firms, according to the research.
The Chamber is now re-launching its Leeds Skills Board to try and find private-sector led solutions and to make sure that local schools and colleges are focused on the skills needs of the region’s businesses.
Mark Goldstone, head of business representation at the Chamber, said: “Leeds is one of Europe’s leading business destinations, yet the city faces significant challenges around delivering an appropriately educated and skilled workforce.
“Unemployment is still at high levels, but employers are struggling to find the right calibre of candidates and this is now directly impacting upon business confidence and profitability. We need to ensure that all individuals have the right skills to achieve meaningful employment.
“The skills agenda and funding has changed dramatically over the past year and business must be vocal about the opportunities it can provide for people with the right skills and education. The Chamber is extremely keen to work with members to develop ambitious solutions to raise the skills in their sector and ensure that no part of our economy is unduly disadvantaged by lack of a skilled workforce”.
The research shows that businesses in manufacturing, creative industries, professional services and consumer services are experiencing the most recruitment difficulties.
David Whitley, regional manager for the Manufacturing Advisory Service for Yorkshire & Humber, said: “The skill shortages that we hear most about in manufacturing are for skilled engineers; machine tool operators, mechanical and electrical engineers.
“Some engineering businesses across the city region are growing at a remarkable pace; however, a key constraint is their difficulty in recruiting additional skilled engineers.”
