- Working Neighbourhoods Funding (WNF)
- NLDC Funding

LAA Increasing Skills in Walsall Project

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), as lead agency, has given Walsall Lifelong Learning Alliance (WLLA) responsibility for co-ordinating the ‘Increasing Skills Levels’ Target Driven Action Plan within the Economic Development and Enterprise (EDE) Pillar of the Walsall Local Area Agreement (LAA).

The project seeks to reverse the trend of underachievement by implementing an alternative curriculum of vocational learning for the delivery of qualifications to support local learners and employers, progressing from Foundation Level learning qualifications, up to Level 3 NVQ (and / or equivalent). This activity is directed at the working age population of Walsall, with the main focus being the delivery of vocational learning by the voluntary and community sector organisations at NVQ Level 2 and 3, or equivalent, to ensure LAA targets are achieved.

The project is open to working age residents of Walsall, both employed and unemployed, to increase their skill levels and a particular emphasis will be around the 19+ unemployed workless groups who have a likelihood to have been NEET.

WLLA will have responsibility for the procurement process for issuing sub-contracts to other providers to deliver. WLLA will also act as the first point of contact for referrals from individuals, employers and other providers and co-ordinate the marketing strategy and publicity campaign to promote the Working Neighbourhood Fund (2008-11). WLLA will work closely with all key partners and enable local voluntary and community organisations to contribute to the skills delivery.

Priorities

Key target groups will be: