JGP News

The provision of a skilled workforce is crucial to London’s economic growth, a new study indicates.

In the London Story report published by Ken Livingstone, the Mayor of London, not enough people living in the capital possess the right skills to allow them to compete for jobs effectively.

In news which could be of interest to those looking to make use of skills portals to attract applicants, including those working within the public sector, engaging employers in boosting the skills and qualifications of their staff could help the city maintain its position as the top business location in Europe, Mr Livingstone claimed.

He said: "London’s economy is highly successful and we must continue to build on this success. Key to this is ensuring London and Londoners have the skills needed to compete for business and jobs.

"I hope the information in The London Story will assist all Londoners - employers, employees and those who want a decent job - to contribute to the crucial debate on setting the strategic direction for meeting London’s skills requirements and ensuring all Londoners are equipped to compete for a decent job."

Meanwhile those from black and minority ethnic groups, single parents and people with long-term disabilities are said to need particular access to training.

Earlier this year, Dianah Worman, diversity officer for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, reported that older staff grant employers "access to a wider pool of skilled and experienced labour".

More about skills portals.