An innovative new partnership between local authorities and leading businesses in the logistics industry has been launched in a bid to boost the economy in Cumbria.
 
The Cumbria Logistics Employer Forum (CLEF) has been set up to bring a range of organisations involved in the important economic sector together and offer a platform to help increase and strengthen the logistics skills pool in the region. The forum will focus on developing the area’s workforce through proven schemes such as the government’s Apprenticeships for young people and already over 30 local businesses have signed up to benefit from the framework and support.
 
Carlisle City Council, the Logistics Academy North West and major companies such as Carrs Billington, Sealy UK, Enesco, BOCM Pauls, Reays Coaches and System Training have all pledged their support to the forum in order to tackle major issues facing the logistics industry.

Significant support has also been pledged by Skills for Logistics - an organisation licensed by the government to develop workforce skills within the logistics sector and provide employers with a competitive advantage.
 
A steering group has been set up and guidelines as to how the group will work going forward have all been established along with a number of key objectives.
 
These include promoting the growth of the logistics sector in Cumbria by encouraging new business development, increasing the awareness of opportunities in logistics within schools and further education establishments, and sharing information on the latest requirements regarding training, legislation and best practice within the industry.
 
It is hoped the forum will provide a number of benefits to members that will help them to grow their workforce within Cumbria as well as attract new companies, and jobs, to the area. Any businesses with an involvement in the logistics sector are invited to join the forum and the next meeting is planned for Wednesday 21 April 2010. More information for new members can be obtained by calling System Training on 01228 574000.
 
The logistics industry has traditionally been an important part of the Cumbrian economy and, currently, over 10% of all workers in Carlisle are employed within this sector.
 
Andy Hallington, Chairman of CLEF said:
“The Cumbria Logistics Employer Forum brings together a wide range of logistics employers in region, offering members opportunities to develop the skills of their workforce, update themselves on industry best practice and develop a local network of logistics companies to the benefit of both themselves and the local economy.”
 
Councillor Marilyn Bowman, Economy Portfolio Holder Carlisle City Council said:
“Carlisle City Council and the Carlisle Economic Development and Enterprise Group recognise the vital role that logistics plays in the local economy and this reflected in the Growing Carlisle Local Economy Strategy.  This is not just about the employment provided by all aspects of the sector but also the role it plays in the wider supply chain, ensuring that many of our businesses are able to be competitive.  The City Council has shown this commitment to the sector through providing support to the Partnership to become established.”

 Follow CLEF on Twitter at www.twitter.com/cumbrialogistic