A new cross-sector partnership is set to become a “key economic driver” within Mid and East Antrim in the coming years, according to Council.
Led by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and made up of a range of community, voluntary and statutory partners, the new Labour Market Partnership (LMP) will focus on improving labour market conditions, addressing the needs of the borough’s employers, and supporting the future workforce.
The local partnership forms part of a province-wide approach developed by the Department for Communities which aims to address employment, careers and training issues through a collaborative and flexible approach to employability support.
A spokesperson for the Council explained: “Our new Labour Market Partnership is an excellent example of collaboration between multiple partners across Mid and East Antrim who possess a shared vision to see our borough’s economy thrive.
“Chief among the aims and ambitions of the LMP is a focus on supporting more local people into meaningful employment and providing residents in the borough with the opportunity to gain new skills and reach their full potential.
“Underpinned by the collective knowledge, expertise and support mechanisms of all partners involved, the LMP will become a key economic driver in Mid and East Antrim as, together, we strive to achieve long-term, sustainable economic growth for our borough.”
A range of partners have helped to develop an Action Plan for 2022-2023 including local Jobs and Benefits Offices, Careers Service NI, Mid and East Antrim Advice Services, Invest NI, NI Union of Supported Employment, Education Authority, Enterprise partners, Inter-ethnic Forum, Northern Regional College and community and business representatives.
The key themes of the LMP Action Plan 2022-2023 for Mid and East Antrim are:
- Supporting job claimants back to the workplace – to underpin post-Covid economic growth.
- Improving access to better quality jobs – addressing the growing pay gap trend in Mid and East Antrim through upskilling.
- Reversing the negative impact Covid has on the economically inactive – through inclusive programmes that provide opportunity for all, with ring-fenced provision for disability / long term sick.
- Addressing the growing gender gap in economic activity – by targeting female participation programmes.
For further information on forthcoming programmes under the LMP Action Plan please contact amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.
