Somerset Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with Somerset Council to get Somerset working by helping employers recruit through a new programme of support, shaped directly by the views of local businesses.
Somerset Chamber of Commerce has launched a survey to find out what support businesses need to offer employment to those with significant barriers to employment or to support those at risk of dropping out of work, due to ill health or disabilities.
David Crew (pictured), Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said: “People are our greatest asset but like many areas across the country, Somerset does face challenges with a proportion of the working age population not in, or seeking, work, referred to as economically inactive. 
“All too often, the skills these economically inactive people could bring to the workplace are being lost because the right support to enable them to work just isn’t there.
“With the right package of support for employers, it is hoped hundreds of people could get back into, or stay in, work in Somerset, boosting the economy and helping local businesses fill their vacancies.”
Nationally, it is estimated that 2.8 million people are currently locked out of work due to long-term sickness. One in eight young people are not in education or training. And nine million adults lack the basic skills they need to get on the career ladder.
Cllr Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Economic Development at Somerset Council, said: “In Somerset there are more than 60,000* people who are economically inactive. Around 16,000 of these people have long-term ill health or disabilities. Many of these individuals do want to work but are prevented from doing so.
“There is also a significant number of individuals who are in work and at risk of dropping out due to ill health.
“Being in good quality work has a positive effect on people’s physical and mental health and their well-being, and at a time when employers are struggling to recruit and retain their employees, it is essential we can provide support to those who want to work to be able to do so and to reach their full potential.
“Our aim is to ensure accessible employment opportunities for all and in doing so, helping our employers to meet their workforce needs.”
In stark contrast, the Chamber network’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey found 60% of respondent businesses in Somerset were operating below capacity. And despite the UK’s unemployment rate remaining at 4.4% at the end of last year, the number of firms reporting difficulties filling vacancies soared to 65%, up from 54% in the previous quarter.
To try and address the issue, the Government has launched a Get Britain Working White Paper to reduce economic inactivity and raise the employment rate. From those suffering from mobility challenges to others who are trying to juggle caring for relatives while finding employment.
Businesses are being encouraged to complete the survey before midday on Friday, March 21, to enable Somerset Council to create a bespoke programme of support in the county.
A link to the survey can be found in the new section of the Chamber’s website at www.somerset-chamber.co.uk or by following this link: https://tinyurl.com/mswvpc8x.
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