Reform of the UK’s immigration system provides an opportunity to tackle skills gaps and workforce challenges in specific sectors, such as construction and social care, the LGA has said.
It is calling for councils to be involved in the development of the Government’s new, points-based immigration system, which comes into effect from 1 January 2021.
The system will assign points for specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions. Those looking to live and work in the UK will need to be qualified up to A level or equivalent, speak English, and have a job offer with a minimum salary of £25,600.
Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, said: “Councils know their local communities and local economies best.
“Involving councils in the development of a new system would mean they can assess demand for skills locally, ensure it takes account of the varied needs of employers, and help the Government achieve its ambition to level up all parts of the country.
“Salary thresholds should be variable across sector and region, to reflect the needs of different employers, alongside a reformed and devolved skills and employment system to tackle the existing national skills shortages.”
He added: “As a country, we face significant skills challenges. The social care system faces one of the most serious challenges and any reforms need to ensure the social care workforce can be maintained.”