Incommunities signs up to Government's 'skills pledge' » Housing » 24dash.com

Incommunities has become one of the first social housing groups in the north of England to sign up to the government’s Skills Pledge.

The Bradford-based social housing provider is committed to developing skill levels in the workforce and the signing of the Pledge is seen as a major step forward in developing the organisation and better customer services.

On Thursday 13th November Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group Chief Executive and Rachel Mann, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) Regional Chair for Yorkshire and the Humber took part in a signing ceremony for the Skills Pledge.

The Skills Pledge is a national initiative that aims to encourage employers of all sizes and in all sectors to support their employees to achieve relevant qualifications to NVQ Level 2 and beyond. It is a visible signal to employees, partners and customers of a commitment to provide excellence in the workplace.

Employers who commit to the Skills Pledge will have access to Skills Brokers as part of the LSC’s Train to Gain Service to support the development of their employees and aid retention levels.

As an Investor in People accredited organisation, Incommunities places a high priority on its employees to learn and attain valuable and relevant work qualifications. A big success has been its ability to attract Modern Apprentices, in particular within construction trades.

Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group Chief Executive said: “We are committed to achieving our vision to be an employer of 1st choice and that means investing in the training and development of every staff member.

“By signing the Skills Pledge we are making a public commitment that we will help every employee to develop, grow and succeed in their jobs. We are proud that they are showing a return on our investment by building their careers with us and contributing to the development of Incommunities and its customer services.

“The signing of the Skills Pledge also shows our commitment to raising the skills base within the district’s economy.”

Rachel Mann, the Regional Chair for the LSC in Yorkshire and the Humber said: “By signing up to the Skills Pledge, employers like Incommunities are leading the way in changing attitudes to training and skills in the workplace and by committing to the future development of staff through training, are enhancing their reputation as a credible organisation and employer of choice.

“Employers who are making the long-term investment in the skills of their people will also be better placed to face economic challenges. As the economy takes a dip, skills and training are more important than ever in helping individuals enhance their own employability and job opportunities and enabling employers and businesses to be as successful as possible.”