Employer engagement
Strong working relationships with employers are fundamental to the work of the European Social Fund (ESF), helping to secure paid employment for unemployed people and to upskill workforces to overcome future challenges.
Working closely with employers is essential for providers in order for them to understand the skills which are in demand and to maximise opportunities for unemployed people. Incentives for employers to work with providers include support with recruitment procedures and practices, the potential to bring in individuals that closely match employer needs, and even to have new recruits trained specifically in their requirements. Keen not only to fill vacancies but to also grow their businesses, employers also work with some ESF providers to ensure their employees are well equipped to adapt to future pressures.
The Work Programme, with its payment structure focused on sustained employment, places further emphasis on good working relationships with employers to understand their needs and to prepare people sufficiently to ensure positive job outcomes. Lessons can be learned from the substantial experience that ESF projects have of engaging with employers including in:
ESF and growth sectors: policy and practice workshop, 28 November 2011
The event took place at The Holiday Inn Kensington Forum Hotel in London, drawing around 45 participants from 21 of ITM’s portfolio of projects and addressed a number of key issues in providing new skills for growth industries and supporting the development of more successful businesses. Guest presentations and summary report are available to download.
We are always looking for project and practice examples with compelling, well-evidenced stories to tell and practice to share. Contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you’d like to talk to us about showcasing your work with employers.
