All have role in shaping Swindon’s new Skills Strategy

An invitation has been issued by Swindon Borough Council for people to have their say in developing its new Skills Strategy.

Residents, local employers and organisations are welcome to voice their thoughts and ideas for the strategy, whose aim is to improve access to training, lifelong learning and employment opportunities across the borough.

The strategy, which is a key part of the council's Build a Fairer Swindon mission, will focus on ensuring that residents have the right skills to succeed in life and in work, and that businesses can access the skilled workforce they need to thrive and grow.

The survey is being supported by a series of engagement events which are open to the public and available to book via the Let’s Talk Swindon platform. The first is tomorrow - Wednesday 9 April - from 6pm to 8.30pm 

at the Central Library in Regent Circus, SN1 1QG, and the next will be on Thursday 24 April from 6pm to 8.30pm at North Swindon Library in the Orbital Retail Park.

Council leader Cllr Jim Robbins said: "We know how important skills and training are to people’s futures, and we want to make sure that support is accessible and relevant for everyone in Swindon.

“Whether you're looking to start work, change career or grow your business, the Skills Strategy is about making sure the right foundations are in place.

“As a listening council, this work provides residents with a genuine chance to be heard in an area that is fundamental to providing effective opportunities for local people, and I’d really encourage everyone to get involved."

A public survey is running throughout April, offering an opportunity for residents, schools and employers to share their view. The survey, which takes less than 10 minutes to complete, will inform the future approach taken by the Council supported by partners. To fill in the survey, and find out more about how the information will be used, people can visit https://letstalk.swindon.gov.uk/swindon-skills-strategy