VONNE

The Regional Employability Framework (REF) aims to provide a single accessible network of support that meets the needs of both individuals and employers.

The REF aims to improve the joint planning between all of the key regional partners (including Jobcentre Plus, the Learning & Skills Council, One North East, Local Authorities, the voluntary and community sector and others) to ensure that effective systems and support are in place in order to help individuals into sustainable employment.

The REF focuses on the individual's (or client's) journey into sustained employment and focuses on the five stages of that journey.  These are:

• Engagement
• Action Planning
• Employability Services
• Job placement
• Aftercare & Retention.

The voluntary and community sector can and does play a key role in each of these five stages of the 'REF journey' and the VCS Employability Reference Group has developed strong links with the REF Groups established to turn the REF from policy to deliverey.

Further information on the REF can be found on the Skills North East website.