National recognition for innovation through Skills Launchpad Plymouth

Competing alongside almost 1,000 UK entries and initiatives, Plymouth City Council has been shortlisted for four Local Government Chronicle Awards for innovative work that is helping to improve the lives of people in Plymouth - Supported Internships, Stirling Veterans’ Self Build Project, Plymouth’s Habitat Bank and Delivering better outcomes through Skills Launchpad Plymouth.

Councils have a long track record of innovation, but the current combination of rising demand and inflationary pressures means it is more important than ever. This award is intended to celebrate councils which have used innovation to re-think services to achieve better outcomes for citizens and communities either at less cost, or with improved experience.

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said: “We are delighted that Skills Launchpad Plymouth is among the four Plymouth City Council projects being considered for this year’s national LGC Awards.

“This nomination for innovation, reflects particularly on the in-year impact of Skills Launchpad Plymouth's Youth Hub, which has evolved significantly following the direct engagement with young people to tailor delivery, working effectively across the Council's Children's Services Directorate to consider how best to meet the demands of our most disadvantaged communities, and engagement with national reports and research.

"By rethinking how we seamlessly connect local citizens with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs, as a city-wide partnership we have delivered better outcomes, significantly improved access, removed barriers, and improved relationships both internally and across the city as we strive for equity that enables everyone that wants to take part in our service, to do so. It’s exciting to see our work continuing to gain national recognition with a golden opportunity to share our learning with colleagues across the country.”

The LGC Awards will take place in London on Wednesday 11 June. For more information about the event, click here - LGC Awards 2025 - Home Page