The Inclusive Economy and Culture Scrutiny Panel met on Thursday 19 February 2026 to discuss the Post-16 Skills Strategy and Action Plan, the Connect to Work Programme and Economic Inactivity Trailblazer programmes, and an update on the Culture Strategy. The Panel also discussed its work programme for 2026-2027 and noted future reports.

Post-16 Skills Strategy and Action Plan

The Panel considered the emerging Post-16 Skills Strategy and Action Plan, which aims to create a coherent, inclusive, and employer-led local skills system. The strategy focuses on aligning training and apprenticeships with local labour market needs, particularly in sectors such as health and adult social care, construction, green skills, and digital. Key priorities include strengthening transitions from Year 10 to post-16 education and into work, expanding support for vulnerable learners and those not in education, employment, or training (NEET), and engaging local businesses in curriculum development. The strategy also aims to improve attainment and progression, particularly at Level 2 and Level 3, and to remove barriers to participation for all residents. The development of the strategy has involved extensive co-production with young people, employers, and community organisations.

Connect to Work Programme and Economic Inactivity Trailblazer Programmes

The Panel received an update on the Connect to Work (CtW) Programme and the Improving Economic Activity (IEA) Trailblazer Programme. These programmes are designed to support economically inactive residents with complex barriers to employment, including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, carers, and young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). The CtW programme utilises high-fidelity supported employment models, Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF), to help participants secure and sustain employment. The IEA Trailblazer programme, a DWP-funded initiative, tests innovative, locally led approaches to reducing economic inactivity, focusing on paid work placements, childcare support, and employer incentives. Early data indicates strong engagement from priority groups, including a significant proportion of participants from ethnic minority backgrounds and those identifying as disabled. Both programmes are underpinned by GLLaB's (Greenwich Local Labour and Business) extensive employer network and aim to integrate employment support with health, skills, and community services.

Culture Strategy Update

The Panel reviewed the one-year progress update on the Culture Strategy, which aims to foster a thriving creative economy, enhance town centre vibrancy, and support voluntary, community, and social sector (VCSE) cultural organisations. The strategy has three core themes: Create, Connect, and Flourish. Significant progress has been made in developing creative and digital jobs, with a 10% increase in creative jobs since 2018. The strategy supports local employment through targeted youth pathways, HE partnerships, and business support. Key developments include the planned Troubadour Greenwich Peninsula Theatre and the revitalisation of Woolwich Works. Cultural programming, such as Royal Greenwich Festivals, has demonstrably increased footfall, supported local businesses, and created employment opportunities. The strategy also focuses on increasing the supply of affordable creative workspaces and nurturing talent through partnerships with higher education institutions. Support for VCSE cultural organisations is provided through multi-year investment, streamlined grants, and commissioning that prioritises inclusive and accessible activity. The strategy contributes to Greenwich's tourism agenda by enhancing its cultural offer and supporting visitor engagement, with initiatives like the Wayfinder Volunteer Initiative aimed at improving the visitor experience. Community engagement is embedded through co-creation, advisory panels, and youth leadership.

Work Programme Discussion 2026-2027

The Panel discussed potential items for its 2026-2027 work programme.

Commissioning of Future Reports

The Panel noted that an update on Tramshed, a community organisation focused on youth theatre and creative engagement, would be presented at the meeting on 23 March 2026. The Panel was asked to consider the scope of this report and specify any detailed requirements.