The forum, held on 5th November, brought together company leaders, educators and key stakeholders to help shape the town’s economic strategy.
The session focused on working more closely with the private sector to drive sustainable growth, develop skills and support innovation.
Matt Peachy, Service Director Inclusive Growth at Swindon Borough Council said:
“The success of Swindon’s businesses is critical not just for our economy, but for the wellbeing of our residents.
“These sessions allow us to listen, collaborate and align our strategies to ensure that the needs of our business community are heard and acted upon.”
The event included updates on several major initiatives.
These included the Skills Strategy, which was approved in September, with the first meeting of the new Strategic Skills Board set to take place on Monday 13 November.
Attendees were also briefed on the Get Britain Working Plan, which is due to be completed by the end of November. It will focus on helping more people get into work, including those with health issues, caring responsibilities or lower skill levels.
The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) will continue for another three years. It aims to improve access to education, apprenticeships and employment for young people.
There was also a focus on done company Tekever’s investment in Swindon and the progress being made at New College Swindon’s Institute of Technology. Both projects support the town’s growing status as a hub for technology and skills.
The Let’s Talk Business initiative encourages local feedback on issues such as economic strategy, investment and net zero plans.
Delegates also explored ways to tackle skills shortages and help young people move into long-term careers in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics and digital technology.
The Council’s economic development team described the forum as “an opportunity to align ambition and action” in pursuit of long-term success.
