Working out how to work together

MORE than 60 people attended an Action for Business forum in Oldham which brought together businesses and education providers to discuss ways of working more closely.

Craig Dean, Oldham president of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, hosted the event at the Earl Business Centre, Hathershaw, and expressed delight at the support.

Mr Dean, chief executive of Web Applications UK Ltd said: “It was clear there is a real interest in developing an inter-agency scheme to work together for the best interests of our town.”

Brian Bradley, a partner at Claire Nicklin Accountants in Cheadle, told the attendees of Stockport’s efforts to address this increasingly important issue.

Its People, Education, Employers Brokerage Service (PEEBS) has been developed over the last 18 months by Stockport Council with the help of business people.

“The brokerage service actively brings together businesses and the local schools and colleges in Stockport,” said Mr Dean adding: “In order to thrive as a business, building and maintaining a skilled workforce is essential. “Engaging with young people enables organisations to shape the next generation of workers by helping to improve skills and encourage career choices.

“Businesses can get involved with young people in many ways and the benefits for both parties are as vast as they are varied.”

Mr Dean believes that it was telling that the event was one of the best attended in recent history a demonstration of the Oldham business community’s commitment to working together for the benefit of our young people.

“We have taken the first steps were taken towards bringing industry and education together for mutual gain,” he said.