The newly launched Employment and Skills Strategic Plan sets out a clear vision for a city where everyone can access the skills, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Sheffield is vibrant and diverse city. The population, economy, and number of businesses are all growing. People in Sheffield are becoming more skilled, and local colleges and universities are training more people who will join the workforce in the future.
But the city still faces challenges. There are high levels of economic inactivity in the city, meaning high numbers of working age people not engaged with employment for a variety of reasons.
Not everyone across the city has the same opportunities and things like new technology and environmental issues are also changing the way businesses operate and how people live and work.
The plan has been developed in partnership with the local authority, employers, education providers, the voluntary sector and local communities. It aims to create a stronger, fairer and more sustainable economy – ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared by all of Sheffield’s residents.
This plan is about investing in Sheffield’s greatest asset – its people. By working together across sectors, we can break down barriers, unlock talent and ensure everyone has the chance to succeed. Our collective ambition is for Sheffield to be a place where businesses and residents can truly thrive.
On a practical level, it is going to mean better careers advice for young people, more apprenticeships, and support for people who’ve been out of work.
It is also going to prepare Sheffield for the future – investing in green jobs, digital skills, and support in local communities where it’s needed most.
Councillor Mohammed Mahroof, Chair of the Economic Development Skills and Culture Committee at Sheffield City Council
Putting people at the heart of Sheffield’s future
At its core, the new strategic plan is about making a real difference to people’s lives. It sets out three key missions:
- Enable and accelerate good economic growth: By investing in people and skills, the plan will help local businesses grow and create more good jobs. It will encourage career ambition among young people and underrepresented groups, support workers to upskill and progress, and connect talent to local opportunities.
- Increase equity and fairness: The plan tackles the root causes of inequality in Sheffield’s labour market, making it easier for everyone to access training, employment and enterprise. It will provide extra support for those facing barriers to work, address disparities across communities, and champion fair pay and healthy, inclusive workplaces.
- Develop skills for a sustainable future: Recognising the rapid changes in the world of work, the strategy will equip residents and businesses with the skills needed for the green economy, digital transformation, and new technologies – ensuring Sheffield remains resilient and competitive for years to come.
What will make a difference?
- Clearer pathways into good jobs: The strategy will make information about employment and skills opportunities more accessible, with clear routes and training for people at every stage of their career.
- Support for those who need it most: Tailored help will be available for young people, those who are economically inactive, and communities facing disadvantage – helping more people into secure, well-paid work.
- Backing local businesses: Employers will benefit from strengthened advice and easier access to training, helping them recruit, upskill and retain the workforce they need. Businesses are also being called on to set the standard for good employment in the city.
- Investing in future skills: From green jobs to digital skills, the strategy will ensure Sheffield residents are ready for the jobs of tomorrow, supporting innovation and enterprise across the city.
What happens next?
Delivery of the strategy will be led by key partners including the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, The Sheffield College, and Sheffield City Council, with regular progress reports to ensure the plan remains focused on realising its vision for 2030. The strategic plan will be reviewed annually to respond to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.
Find out more
For more information, visit the Council website. Or contact Sheffield City Council’s Employment and Skills Team on 0114 205 7530.