I met with more than 15 local employers at an event organised by Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF) to examine how the Government’s skills agenda can drive economic growth.
Phillippa Batting, CEO, said:
We appreciate Emma taking time to listen to the local business voice.
It was an insightful discussion where we put a spotlight on skills, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for businesses relating to their current and future workforce.
I was interested to hear about the Buckinghamshire Local Skills Improvement plan and to discuss how government measures to improve flexibility on apprenticeships can increase uptake in our area. The meeting was a great opportunity to hear from businesses about the issues holding Wycombe’s young people back, including driving test delays and the excessive administrative burdens on companies offering work experience.
I will be writing to the relevant authorities to represent these concerns. Other local businesses wishing to share their views should get in touch with me at Emma.Reynolds.MP@parliament.uk.
Luisa Clarke, Talent Attraction Lead for Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, said:
NHS trusts across the country need to attract the workforce of the future by engaging with schools and colleges within our local communities.
“We are working with Bucks Skills Hub and the Careers and Enterprise Company to create the foundations of our talent pipeline through outreach activities, work experience and insight events at the Trust.