Issue - meetings

Joe Battye, Director of Economy and Regeneration introduced the report together with Councillor Tony King and Andrew Marsh, Head of Employment and Skills (Place).  The report had been circulated in advance of the meeting and provided an overview of the Council’s role in the growth of low carbon skills, employment, and training in Derbyshire. It was accompanied by a presentation that gave more detail on the key work programmes currently being delivered.

The report set out the strategic context faced by the Council which had a multi-faceted role to play.  As Facilitator, it was bringing together key partners, identifying issues, delivering programmes and offering funding through schemes such the Green Entrepreneurs.  Twelve themes had been established to develop, implement, manage and monitor delivery plans however the main focus was on schools, low carbon economy, internal engagement and training and external engagement.  Much had already been achieved, with the Council continuing to develop the county-wide green narrative, being mindful of existing sectors and the skills base, greening and decarbonising jobs.

Councillor King reinforced the narrative around education and skills with work being done to put together an accredited qualification for the people of Derbyshire.  Great strides had been made with green initiatives and around the hydrogen agenda – changes were radical and outcomes would be seen in the near future.

Committee members welcomed the report and the work being done.  The apparent low number of 77 gaining employment was explained in that just 187 of the total stated were seeking actual employment, with the remainder seeking different types of support.  The Council was speaking with businesses but it had to be recognised that it had little influence or control of private business.

Officers agreed to publish good news stories around Green Entrepreneurs in the regular electoral update.  The next Strategy update would focus on how to engage with small businesses.

RESOLVED to note the approach being taken to the Council’s role in the growth of low carbon skills, employment and training.