British Chambers of Commerce have released the results of their Workforce Survey 2017.
It is divided into three parts and below we provide a summary of each, along with the link to read more and download the full report for each section.
Impact of employment costs
This reveals that pensions auto-enrolment, the National Living Wage and the Apprenticeship Levy have increased the cost base of businesses, and could lead to reduced opportunities for investment and wage growth.
Further information along with the full report can be downloaded from http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/…/bcc-workforce-survey-20…
Addressing skills shortages
This identifies that half of UK businesses have faced skills or labour shortages in the last year, but only a minority are actively looking overseas to fill vacancies. The results challenge the myth that UK firms are ignoring local workers in favour of overseas labour. With a softening economy and slowing immigration, the BCC is calling for action to ensure business growth isn’t hampered by labour shortages.
Further information and the full report can be downloaded from http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/…/bcc-workforce-survey-20…
Impact and awareness of the Apprenticeship Levy
The survey shows that six months after its introduction, businesses remain in the dark about how best to utilise the Apprenticeship Levy. The findings reinforce the need for clearer guidance and support for businesses wanting to utilise the Apprenticeship Levy. Firms, both above and below the levy threshold, are uncertain about how to use the funds to find and train the skills they need, undermining the purpose of the system.
Further information along with the full report can be downloaded from http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/…/bcc-workforce-survey-20…