Control of UK skills funding should be devolved to councils to ensure it is tailored to local jobs and economies, a national network of 27 cities has urged.
A study by Key Cities - published today - said ministers should devolve powers beyond mayoral authorities and into town halls so that bespoke training and job-seeking packages become central to communities.
The report said currently 42% of adults do not participate in learning – placing the UK at a ‘distinct disadvantage’ compared to other developed states.
It read: ‘The future of work is a constantly changing landscape, affected by automation, disruptions in regulation and trade, and the transition to net zero.
‘While creating attractive opportunities for new skills, these changes also threaten jobs with low or out-of-date skills and the system must be agile enough to compete.
‘The overall conclusion is simple: no growth strategy will succeed unless the right skills are available in the right places.’
Deputy leader of Bradford City Council, Imran Khan, added: ‘The payoff for getting this right will be enormous: a much more competitive position for UK businesses and a better quality of life for our people.’
This article was originally published by The MJ (£).
