The IRES 27+ Pledge
Total Pledge Signatures
The IRES 2027+ Pledge invites all stakeholders, partners, employers, organisations and individuals across the region to support the continued development of the Integrated Regional Employability and Skills (IRES) Programme beyond 2027.
By signing, you are endorsing the vision set out in the IRES 2027+ Proposal and the importance of a coordinated regional approach to skills.
The campaign launched on 6th March, when the Edinburgh & South East Scotland City Region Deal Joint Committee became the first to sign in support.
In the months ahead, everyone across the region will be invited to add their support, sending a clear signal that continued investment in the regional skills system is backed by employers, institutions and delivery partners.
Through the pledge, we will demonstrate a shared commitment to delivering the next phase of the IRES programme.
Top left to right: Cllr Euan Jardine, Cllr David Ross, Cllr Russell Imrie, Garry Clark. Bottom left to right: Cllr Norman Hampshire, Cllr Jane Meagher, Neil McLean.
Partners Supporting the IRES 2027+ Pledge
Stakeholders
Partners across the region are backing the IRES 2027+ Pledge, recognising the importance of coordinated regional collaboration to strengthen the skills system and support the next phase of IRES.
Cllr Jane Meagher, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council
“IRES is fundamental to the whole project for the City-Region Deal. If we’re going to match employment opportunities and skills with the people who need the work.
If we’re to continue to grow in a sustained way in this region, then IRES has got to underpin all our activities.”
Cllr Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council
“The world of skills is developing; there’s a different landscape coming forward. You’ve got to look at AI development, but you’ve also got traditional skills that are continuing, and businesses need, and people need to evolve. Using IRES to move forward and utilise the potential of people is something really important.”
Cllr Norman Hampshire, Leader of East Lothian Council
“IRES will create opportunities for people who are not in employment, give them a pathway back into a job. Give people the training they require, so that they can deliver their work.”
Industry & Enterprise
Industry and Enterprises across the region are backing the IRES 2027+ Pledge, recognising the importance of coordinated regional collaboration to strengthen the skills system and support the next phase of IRES.
Claire Sarafilovic, Atkins Realis
“The City Region Deal skills programme plays a critical role in widening participation, supporting industry pathways and enabling people from all backgrounds to build meaningful, well‑paid careers. This strengthens our regional economy, supports long‑term, inclusive growth and we are proud to endorse this programme.”
John Renwick, Warmworks
“We recognise the importance of partnership in building a skilled, future-ready workforce. IRES brings together employers, communities and training providers to create clear pathways into better, higher-paid jobs. With further investment, it will continue to play a vital role in supporting the transition to net zero, tackling in-work poverty and driving inclusive, sustainable growth across the region.”
Nick Rowan, Managing Director – Scotland, Balfour Beatty
“Continued funding through IRES 2027+ is critical to maintaining this momentum, enabling long‑term planning, and ensuring that employers, education partners, and communities can continue to work together to deliver inclusive, high‑quality skills outcomes for the city and beyond.”
