New Forest District Council (NFDC) has approved a new Skills Action Plan to help local people gain the skills needed for better jobs and to support the New Forest’s economy.
The decision to approve the New Forest Skills Action Plan (NFSAP), was taken at Cabinet on 2 July.
The plan sets out a five-year roadmap (2025 to 2030) to tackle local challenges such as an ageing population, low-paid jobs, and limited access to training. It focuses on helping young people, women returning to work, over-50s, job changers, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
The key goals of the plan include supporting lifelong learning and digital skills, helping people into better paid, higher skilled jobs, and strengthening sectors like health, tourism, and green industries, as well as promoting inclusive growth and equal access to training.
Councillor Derek Tipp, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy, said: “This Skills Action Plan is a vital step in ensuring our residents are equipped for the jobs of today and tomorrow. By working closely with local partners, we can unlock opportunities for people across the New Forest and build a stronger, more inclusive economy.”
A range of actions are planned, and the council will be working with partners to develop new training programmes, better coordination with local employers and colleges, and support for business start-ups.
A New Forest Skills Group will be set up to lead the delivery of the plan, with New Forest District Council chairing the group.
The plan was developed with input from local businesses, education providers, and community groups, and is funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The Cabinet report about the New Forest Skills Action Plan is available at https://democracy.newforest.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=133&MId=8111