Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 9, 2025

Purpose: To gain Cabinet approval for Dorset and BCP’s Get Britain Working Plan and the related connect to work plan, and delegate authority for subsequent changes and allocation of further funding.

Content: (a)           That the draft ‘Get Dorset and BCP Working Plan’, be approved for publication. (b)           That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Place, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Property, Assets and Economic Growth and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, to undertake any minor changes to the Working Plan needed during its lifetime. (c)           That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Place, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Property, Assets and Economic Growth and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, to assign any remaining funding from the Government allocation to deliver outcomes identified in the Get Dorset and BCP Working Plan.     (d)           That the Connect to Work Plan, be approved. (e)           That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Place, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Property, Assets and Economic Growth and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, to undertake any minor changes to the Connect to Work Plan needed during its lifetime. Reason for the decision The Get Dorset and BCP Working Plan, and supporting Connect to Work programme, would enable Dorset Council to help address challenges related to labour market participation and progression.   In addition to being a government requirement, development and implementation of the Plan would help realise key ambitions of the Council’s Plan and supporting Economic Growth Strategy and Digital Infrastructure and Inclusion Strategy, particularly around productivity, investment and skills needed for both today’s economy and the proposed future expansion of key sectors including clean energy.