South West Regional Skills Enterprise and Employment Analysis 2007/2008

Final Report

Foreword

I have great pleasure in introducing the South West Regional Skills, Enterprise and Employment Analysis 2007/8. This analysis has been produced by the South West Observatory, Skills and Learning Intelligence Module (SLIM) on behalf of the Regional Skills Partnership in the South West (RSP).

This analysis draws together the most current and pertinent research and analysis of skills, enterprise and employment, both nationally and within the region. It is a critical tool in developing a shared understanding of these issues, both now and into the medium-term future. It also seeks to inform future regional priorities.

This report is the result of a partnership approach between the key government agencies in the region involved in the skills, enterprise and employment agenda and it also draws on expert views. The findings of this analysis will be critical in steering the RSP to develop a clear strategic vision, achieve our objectives and redefine our priorities.

There is no doubt that we have much to celebrate within the region, with low unemployment, high employment rates and a relatively highly-skilled workforce. Yet we are not complacent. As a region we face significant challenges. Raising the productivity of our businesses and ensuring that they are equipped to meet future needs must be a critical focus.

As a large and diverse region, we also experience a great diversity of performance in productivity, skills and employment across the region. We need to recognise this diversity and seek to address the underlying problems faced by the more south westerly part of the region.

We note the recommendations of this report and commend it to partners for further views. These views will help to shape the RSP’s Statement of Priorities, focus our activities in the future and inform the Regional ESF Skills Strategy.

Juliet Williams
Chair
South West Regional Skills Partnership