Skills shortages across the country have been highlighted in recent months and now it has fallen to Dorset to address this serious problem.

Dorset Chamber has been handpicked by the government to lead a major review aimed at boosting business skills in the county.

Following the submission of a successful proposal, the chamber was commissioned by the Department for Education to lead the rapid development of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).

Essentially LSIPs are a review of the skills needs of businesses to inform current and future training to ensure provision meets the exact needs of local employers.

The government has asked for a specific focus on emerging net zero skills and other ‘pressing’ shortages.

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber chief executive, said: “This is a significant policy change by government to ensure employers’ needs drive post-16 technical education and training in England.

“Working closely with all Dorset employers, local providers including school, colleges, universities, our two local authorities, the LEP and independent trainers, we are tasked to report back to government by 31 May.

“Our role will continue for a further two years to monitor and measure the impact of the changes made.

“Employers now have a great opportunity to be directly involved in problem solving at least some of their current issues.

“Dorset Chamber is well placed to deliver this change in policy as the leading employer representative body in the county.

“There will be a strong focus on partnership working to maximise business engagement within the LSIP review, working closely with other business support organisations.”

Nicola Newman, former chief executive of careers, employability and mentoring charity Ansbury Guidance, will lead the LSIP programme for the chamber.

For additional information or to get involved early please contact nicola.newman@dorsetchamber.co.uk.