IRES 27+

IRES 27+ responds to a rapidly changing labour market and a growing gap between skills and opportunity across the region.

By 2034, over 116,000 additional workers will be needed, while more than 48,000 people rely on Universal Credit, highlighting the need to support progression into higher-skilled, better-paid work.

Building on the success of IRES, the next phase will establish a fully connected skills system, aligning education, training, employability support and employers around clear pathways into future-facing jobs.

Designed to complement, not duplicate, existing provision, IRES 27+ will strengthen and embed these pathways to support those experiencing in-work poverty to progress into higher-skilled, better-paid and more secure roles

Together, this will create a more joined-up, responsive and future-ready skills system, supporting people to progress, employers to grow, and the regional economy to thrive.