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Addressing Workforce Development Needs: Key Insights from the LSIP Survey Results Progress Report
In the business world, continuous growth and adaptability are paramount to maintaining competitiveness, especially in a rapidly changing economic landscape. The recent LSIP Survey, focusing on workforce development and training across Norfolk and Suffolk, reveals critical insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by local businesses in these areas. The report sheds light on the current state of training, apprenticeship provisions, and the skills gap, with a particular focus on emerging sectors such as digital skills, soft skills, and green technologies.
Key Trends from the Survey
The LSIP Survey captured the perspectives of 182 business owners across various industries in Norfolk and Suffolk, offering valuable data about the needs and obstacles businesses are facing. Some key trends that emerged are:
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Training Accessibility Issues: Many businesses are struggling to access the specialised training they need, particularly in niche sectors. A notable 31% of businesses reported that they were not accessing any form of training, often due to logistical barriers or lack of locally available resources.
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The Need for Soft Skills: An emerging trend is the significant gap in soft skills—such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Employers are increasingly highlighting the importance of these skills in ensuring a successful workforce. However, training in soft skills is not as readily available as technical training.
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Challenges with Apprenticeships: 59% of respondents reported not accessing apprenticeship provision. Many small businesses cited the challenges of supporting an apprentice due to limited capacity, and some felt that apprenticeship programs did not align with their specific business needs. Furthermore, a mixed experience with government initiatives like “Road to Logistics” and “Kickstart” left many businesses hesitant to fully embrace apprenticeships without more tailored options.
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Business Growth Support: Local businesses also voiced a strong need for more practical support when it comes to scaling their operations. From managing resources to accessing funding, many entrepreneurs noted that the current system is not designed with their growth challenges in mind, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Insights from Business Conversations
The report also includes qualitative insights from in-depth discussions with business owners, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.
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Agricultural Sector: Businesses in agriculture reported substantial pressure from budget cuts, which often result in training being one of the first areas to be reduced. Some companies in this sector are focusing on in-house training, but they also highlighted a need for more accessible funding to support external training initiatives. Additionally, there’s a call for basic skills, like communication and problem-solving, to be taught at a school level, ensuring a workforce equipped to handle sector-specific demands.
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Niche Training Needs: Several industries reported challenges in accessing training for specialised roles. For example, businesses in sectors like floristry, broadcasting, and refrigeration are forced to conduct training in-house or send employees to locations far outside Norfolk and Suffolk due to the absence of local options. This highlights a significant gap in the availability of specialised training within these regions.
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Barriers to Apprenticeships: While some businesses were open to the idea of apprenticeships, many expressed concerns about the capacity required to support apprentices. Small companies, in particular, found it difficult to balance apprenticeship programs with their regular operations. Furthermore, the mismatch between the apprenticeships on offer and the specific needs of businesses has made these programs less attractive for some.
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Grant Funding Challenges: A recurring theme in the survey was the difficulty businesses face when trying to access grants. The application process is often described as complex and time-consuming, making it an impractical solution for time-strapped businesses, particularly SMEs.
Key Findings and Recommendations
Based on the survey results, the following key findings and recommendations emerged:
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Niche Training Accessibility: There is a clear need for more specialised training options to be available locally, particularly in sectors like agriculture, floristry, and refrigeration. Businesses are often forced to send staff to distant locations, incurring additional costs and time delays. This could be addressed by expanding training providers or creating more localised training hubs.
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Apprenticeships Need Tailoring: Apprenticeship programs need to be more closely aligned with the specific needs of businesses. Current models, which are often one-size-fits-all, may not work for many smaller businesses. Providing more flexible apprenticeship options or sharing apprentices between businesses could be a solution.
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Increase Support for Small Businesses: Small businesses are looking for more practical support to scale their operations. This includes access to easier-to-navigate funding opportunities, tailored apprenticeships, and support in finding and retaining talent.
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Enhance Soft Skills Training: Given the growing emphasis on soft skills, businesses must have access to relevant training that helps develop these essential attributes in their workforce. Collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, and training providers could be key to meeting this demand.
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Simplify Grant Application Processes: The complexity of grant applications is deterring businesses from applying for essential funding. Streamlining the process and offering more direct assistance, particularly for SMEs, could ease this burden and encourage more businesses to pursue available opportunities.
The LSIP Survey underscores the ongoing challenges faced by businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk regarding workforce development, with a clear need for more accessible and tailored training solutions. As businesses navigate through skills gaps, apprenticeship concerns, and a lack of local specialised training options, there is a clear opportunity for regional policy-makers and educational bodies to step in and offer the support necessary for business growth.
A focus on creating a more flexible and business-specific training ecosystem—along with simplifying access to funding and apprenticeship programs—will ensure that local businesses are equipped to meet current and future workforce demands. The success of these efforts will not only benefit the businesses themselves but will contribute to the overall economic growth of Norfolk and Suffolk, empowering the next generation of talent across various industries.
By fostering a closer connection between businesses and training providers, the region can address the skills gaps and help businesses thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape.
#BCCConf 2019 highlights
A delegation of Norfolk Chambers members attended the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) annual conference on 28 March 2019. Business Writer Huw Sayer was one of them and sent in this report.
The BCC Conference is meant to be a chance to reflect on successes in the past year and look ahead to new opportunities. Sadly, this year was different. Yes, there are of course opportunities for innovative businesses – I will touch on some in a moment. But, on the biggest question facing UK business there had been precious little progress towards fashioning a coherent and viable answer.
“Westminster cannot keep chasing rainbows”
With days to go before we leave the EU, it appears the politicians who claim or aspire to lead the UK had nothing new to say on Brexit. The same tired old ideological positions, the same apparent lack of concern for the interests of business and even a lack of understanding of how the EU works. If you wanted ‘cake’, there was plenty on offer from across the political spectrum.
No wonder Dr Adam Marshall, the BCC’s Director General, was angry. His conference speech pulled no punches and judging by the applause and comments of delegates accurately caught the mood of business. “Three years going round in circles,” pretty much sums up the whole sorry process.
As Adam said, the BCC has worked tirelessly to get “clear, precise answers to hard questions” but to no avail. It has asked for details “politicians have glossed over” but “too many critical questions remain unanswered”. The issue is not leave or remain – it’s that Chamber members need to know the terms on which we will leave the EU and what our future trading relationship will be like.
This uncertainty is already having real consequences, with many businesses now acting on the assumption we will leave with no deal. Adam spoke of investors pulling out of projects, saying they “want to invest in a more stable country”; companies mothballing factories and looking for new facilities in Europe; agri-food producers in Northern Ireland shifting south of the border to avoid potential new tariff barriers. As he said: “This is no way to run a business, let alone a country.”
How to win and retain talented employees
On a more positive note, we enjoyed listening to some excellent panel discussions and stand-alone talks from business leaders.
The most interesting talk was by Dr Pawel Adrjan, UK Economist for the global recruitment agency Indeed. It was also the most clearly presented – and, in a refreshing change from most speakers, he gave it without notes. He had three useful suggestions for businesses looking to attract and retain talented employees: search in untapped pools, use free online tools and relevant key words, and adapt your offer to suit the needs of potential recruits.
His main point was that, despite signs of ‘full-employment’, there are still plenty of people in the UK looking for work. Too many businesses still focus on an over-fished pool of potential recruits and so miss out on talent from more diverse backgrounds. They are also probably paying more for their recruits, as people who move jobs tend to get higher pay rises than those who stay put.
He noted that although the national unemployment rate is around 4%, the rates among some demographic groups are substantially higher, in particular: single parents 10.6%, people with disabilities 8.4%, people aged 18-29 7.3%, and ethnic minorities 6.3%. Where these demographics overlap, the rates are often even higher. Yet with the right incentives, such as flexible working and in-work training, these people can quickly make a valuable contribution to their employers.
The need to target diverse demographics tied in with his second point about using free online tools and being more precise in your online job ads. People are increasingly net-savvy and their job searches are becoming more sophisticated. They are using search terms like job share, flexible hours, remote working, and Monday to Friday (this last reflects a growing desire among many people for more regular work hours) – if your ad doesn’t have relevant key words, they won’t see it.
That brings us on to his final point: businesses need to adapt their jobs to meet the changing needs and desires of potential employees. It’s not all about the pay – if it ever was. Yes, salary is important but many people are also looking for work they can fit around their home life – this is particularly true of single parents and women returners. They are also looking for other intangible rewards, such as the opportunity for personal fulfilment, not just a linear career progression.
Innovation panel
This discussion, chaired by Sarah Howard MBE and Vice Chair of BCC, benefitted from a strong panel: Will Gardiner, CEO of Drax Group PLC, Kriti Sharma, Vice President of Artificial Intelligence at Sage, Polly Gilbert, social entrepreneur and Co-Founder of TAP London, and Christine Foster, Managing Director for Innovation at the Alan Turing Institute. They were looking at the changing nature of work and how new technology would influence jobs.
In some respects, they touched on points already made by Dr Adrjan. They stressed the need to harness the potential of young people and the knowledge of older workers to create the diverse workforce needed to drive innovation. Christine Foster said it was important to give permission to work flexibly – to both our employees and ourselves. She also urged businesses to embrace technology that did away with mundane or unhealthy jobs – and use technology to improve human lives.
Polly Gilbert talked about building teams in tech companies – particularly start-ups and scale-ups. She said it was vital to agree clear roles and responsibilities at the start of any innovative project to avoid conflict later in the process. She and Kriti Sharma agreed that it was important always to start with user-led insights; otherwise, you risk ending up with an expensive bit of clever tech that no one really wants or needs.
William Gardiner reflected on the need for established companies to nurture a culture of everyday innovation. Don’t assume that innovation has to come from the top down – in fact, putting someone in charge of innovation can lead everyone else to assume it is not their responsibility. Yet lots of small changes can lead to big advances – particularly if you listen to and test ideas from people close to customers or on the factory floor.
Supporting women entrepreneurs
Finally, I would like to mention the excellent talk by Alison Rose, Deputy CEO at NatWest and CEO of the company’s Commercial & Private Banking division. She was reflecting on her report for the Government into financing for female entrepreneurs. In short, investors are failing to support and benefit from the ideas and energy of many talented business women. The unrealised potential for the UK economy is around £250bn – equivalent to 4-years of economic growth.
This is a vitally important topic – that deserves more than this summary. I urge you to read Alison’s report: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-alison-rose-review-of-female-entrepreneurship. Norfolk Chambers of Commerce will certainly return to this topic.
Catch up on social media
I hope you found this report interesting. If you want to see what other people thought about the BCC conference 2019, just search Twitter for the hashtag #BCCConf. Remember to follow @NorfolkChamber for all your local business news.
Outlook for global trade remains weak for 2022
The outlook for global trade remains weak for 2022, according to a new study published this week by the UN Conference on Trade and Development. The report finds that although trade values are continuing to rise (partly down to inflation-led price rises), trade volumes are almost stagnant.
An update on live and forthcoming UK trade negotiations:
CPTPP (11-strong nation block in Asia-Pacific) accession – set to be completed by the end of 2022.
India – high-level deadline set for 24 October 2022 for completion of negotiations.
Canada (upgrading the continuity agreement) – have commenced, due to be completed by end of 2022.
Mexico (upgrading the continuity agreement) – have commenced – no deadline for completion.
Gulf Co-operation Council (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain, Oman) – first round taking place this month.
Israel (upgrading the continuity agreement) – negotiations launched, likely to get underway in coming weeks.
Switzerland (upgrading the continuity agreement) – likely to get underway in the autumn.
Future negotiations: South Korea (upgrading the continuity agreement). Australia and New Zealand agreements on track for ratification before end of 2022 and entry into force early next year.
If you need support trading across the world please get in touch with our International Trade team here.
Image credit: Chambers Canva Pro 2022
Norfolk Chambers Podcast | with Sarah King and Graham Parfitt | The Matthew Project
Welcome to our Norfolk Chambers podcast!
In todays’ podcast Haze Carver AKA The Zinger chats with Sarah King, Fundraising and Events officer at the Mathew Project, and Graham Parfitt, Recovery Hub Manager, from their Next Steps team which is just one of the additional support services the Matthew Project specialise in.
Today we’ll be talking about the ways in which TMP support the community and those affected by drugs and alcohol, and how you and your business can get involved to support this incredible charity.
CHIEF to Customs Declaration Service (CDS)
HMRC is closing its Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system on 31st March 2023.
- From 30th September 2022, all import declarations will be declared on CDS
- From 31st March 2023, all export declarations will be declared on CDS
Some differences:
- It is essential that you use the correct tariff. The code lists are not the same for CHIEF and CDS, the declarant must select the correct code, or the declaration will fail.
- In CDS most data elements are restricted to code format (other than name and address fields) which is different from CHIEF which accepted data in a free text format.
- A new dashboard to monitor and manage declarations
- More detailed customs information is required
“Registering takes time so businesses should start moving to the Customs Declaration Service to ensure a smooth transition and avoid disruption to their business.” says Government Department.
To access CDS you will need a Government Gateway account. Most businesses will have an account already to access for tax purposes and this can be used to access CDS. HMRC has also now automatically registered EORIs on CDS.
Find out more on the new requirements for CDS
Challenging times ahead despite uptick in GDP for July
Reacting to the latest ONS figures on GDP for July 2022, David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, said:
“Today’s estimated rise in monthly GDP for July 2022 by 0.2% shows that growth continues to fluctuate considerably on a month-by-month basis.
“The main driver of growth is the services sector following a fall in the previous month. However, the production and construction sectors have both seen a second consecutive fall in growth.
“The UK economy faces serious immediate and longer-term structural issues which could lead to quarterly recession by the end of 2022, and anaemic yearly growth after that.
“BCC’s research shows that business confidence is trending downwards, with inflation wiping out turnover and profitability for many firms and a record proportion facing recruitment difficulties.
“Last week’s announcement on support for firms’ energy bills will have provided some reassurance to business and should dampen one of the key sources of inflation, but further details of the scheme are needed to restore long-term confidence.
“The Bank of England face a delicate balancing act on monetary policy and while inflation is the dominant issue, further rate raises could compound the economy’s move towards recession.
“Crucially, while the war in Ukraine continues, we are unlikely to see a stabilisation in gas prices, and the economic outlook will remain challenging.”
Force Majeure Certificate
Force Majeure are certificates attesting the existence of force majeure circumstances i.e. circumstances beyond the control of the applicant such as fire, flood, industrial disputes, pandemic, wars and conflicts etc.
Please note that we can only certify factual details that can be evidenced.
We cannot comment as to whether or not Force Majeure applies or argue such claims on behalf of the applicant.
It is the responsibility of the applicant to claim Force Majeure and the issuing body’s role is to provide a certificate in support of such claim.
How you apply to your Chamber for a Force Majeure Certificate
- Email a letter confirming details of the force majeure circumstances and the scope of non-fulfilment of contractual obligations due to these circumstances, signed by the company director, to export@norfolkchambers.co.uk
- This will need to be backed up by documents by the competent authorities or verifiable sources attesting to the existence of the force majeure circumstances (not required if circumstances are related to invasion of Ukraine)
- We will produce a draft letter and email it to you for approval.
- The letter on Chamber headed paper will be stamped with the Chamber logo stamp and released once we have received the payment
If you have any queries regarding the details above please contact our International Trade Department, who will be happy to help you.
Telephone: 01603 729716
Email: export@norfolkchambers.co.uk
Photo credit: Getty Images/Chamber Canva Pro usage 2022
Norfolk Chambers Podcast | with Kathy Ennis | LittlePiggy
Welcome to the Norfolk Chambers podcast, in todays’ episode we’re going to chat to the brilliantly energetic Kathy Ennis, Director and Founder of LittlePiggy.
Kathy is an ideas person with 20+ years in Business, an Author, a Mentor and an Entrepreneur – and one of our most engaged members. From Freelancers, Side Hustles and Solopreneurs to the pandemic opportunities and pushing people to re-evaluate their careers and futures, this is a brilliant podcast to listen to if you’re thinking of starting a side hustle, a new venture or you need to be inspired!
Thousands of people are coming up with brilliant ideas, spotting gaps in the market, transitioning from employee to entrepreneur or turning their hobbies into successful businesses.
We will turn your ideas into a brilliant and profitable business.
Working together we will cover key areas so that you start your business the right way and nothing is left to chance.
The Chambers Co.nnecting at the Norfolk Show
On Thursday our Events Manager, Amy Wright, and Digital Marketing Apprentice Emma Jermany attended the Royal Norfolk Show.
The annual event returned for 2022 after a 3-year hiatus for its 175th year and it attracted an estimated over 90k visitors and 700 businesses.
Amy and Emma spent the morning visiting some of our Chamber member’s stands including UPP, EACH, Norwich High School for Girls, Norwich City FC, Buy Local, Plant Grow, Barnham Broom, Anglian Car Charging, and not forgetting the Big C who had a great interactive stand.
They also visited the Beryl Bikes stand where they were offering prizes to win 100 free minutes by spinning a prize wheel.
After enjoying the RAF Falcons parachute display, it was time for our networking session at the Hospitality Tent.
Our COO Nova Fairbank and Amy Wright presented on the growth and Co.nnections for The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce followed by drinks and networking.
It was wonderful to see and network with so many Norfolk businesses, we’re already looking forward to the show next year.
TV Licensing – Dispensation for the Queen’s Funeral
A recent announcement from TV Licencing:
We offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family following the death of Her Majesty The Queen. Her Majesty was the embodiment of public service.
We know that many communities may wish to come together and observe the funeral of Her Majesty The Queen and so the BBC is providing local communities a TV Licence dispensation. The dispensation will allow any communal setting where TV is not usually watched, such as town halls, community centres and libraries across the UK, to screen the live programmes without needing to purchase a licence.
We want to reach out to communities and those who are making arrangements to let them know that the dispensation is in place and therefore we welcome your support in making your service users aware.
By law, if live television or BBC iPlayer is viewed on any premises, those premises must be covered by a valid TV Licence. However, in exceptional circumstances, the BBC can grant a dispensation for the temporary viewing of television, so long as the viewing is for the sole purpose of screening an event which is judged by the BBC to be of national importance.
As the BBC Board has said, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a unifying figure across generations, communities and borders, who represented the very best of our nation. We are grateful at the BBC to have witnessed, recorded and shared so many of the special moments in her long life and reign. She will always be remembered with the greatest affection and admiration.
For further information click here.
Norfolk Chambers Podcast | with Chloe Smith MP & Matt Smith, Evander
Kickstarting careers for young people
Welcome to the Norfolk Chambers podcast – in this episode our CEO Chris Sargisson is talking with Chloe Smith, Member of Parliament and leader of the Norwich for Jobs Programme and also Matt Smith, Human Resources Director at Evander. This podcast was recorded at the Evander Head Office on Broadland Business Park in Norwich.
Follow Norwich for Jobs Twitter
For the first 9 years Julie was administrator to the CEO and for the last 12 years, she has worked in the International Department. What Julie doesn’t know about International Trade, is not worth knowing! So you know where to come if you have an international question.
Thank you Julie!