Challenges and Growth Opportunities in Wales

By Kate Shoesmith, Head of Policy & Public Affairs

The REC spent a packed couple of days in Cardiff last week, engaging with local members, stakeholders and Welsh Government.  Like the rest of the UK, the jobs market is clearly recovering but it still has its challenges.  

Here is a run-down of what to look out for and opportunities for members in Wales.

1. The future of work:

The University of South Wales recently concluded a study for the UKCES on what jobs and skills may look like by 2030. In all the models developed by the researchers and presented to attendees of the Wales Employment and Skills Board (the REC is a member of the Board), they highlighted how technology and networks are likely to become more important for work by 2030. It was really interesting to see how this chimed with Kevin Green’s presentation to members at the Cardiff City Conference where he outlined how economic and social trends will impact the recruitment businesses of the future. To attend a City Conference near you, go to the REC website or to read more about the UKCES report, click here.

2. An expanding, candidate driven market puts compliance centre-stage:

At our Education Sector group meeting in Wales, we discussed how to develop effective collaborations between schools and agencies.  REC Audited Education aims to help members to deliver best practice.  The Welsh Government asked the group for their views as they develop guidance on the effective management of workforce absence in schools before this come into effect from September 2014. They also updated us on how every member of staff on school grounds will need a development plan in the future –  there will be a consultation on this, so watch this space. 

Members also learnt more about the REC’s Good Recruitment Campaign, which is our way of supporting clients in all sectors to consider how they make resourcing decisions that are compliant, transparent and help good recruiters win.

3. Apprenticeship opportunities can help young people into work and support business growth:

The Welsh Government’s recent policy statement on skills highlights their ongoing support for apprenticeships.  A further £40 million investment is planned over the next two years.  Government are particularly keen to capture employer experiences of apprenticeships, what works and what doesn’t. Please contact kate.shoesmith@rec.uk.com  to add your views.  If you want to learn more about apprenticeships in recruitment, have a look at the IRP website.

4. Supporting more women to progress in work:

Chwarae Teg is an organisation that helps Welsh women build rewarding careers. Recruiters in Wales have an arsenal of support tactics that they provide to candidates every day and we discussed how our members can build a relationship between members and Chwarae Teg.  Many of the issues we discussed aligned with REC’s recent ‘Room at the Top’ report.  Chwarae Teg is particularly keen to hear from members who are willing to be mentors and support their campaign to get more women into decision making roles – for more information, please contact kate.shoesmith@rec.uk.com.