Written question asked by Sarah Pochin (Reform UK) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Lilian Greenwood (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Vocational Education: Runcorn and Helsby

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if his Department will undertake a local skills needs assessment for Runcorn and Helsby constituency to identify employer demand in engineering, laboratory science, digital technology, construction, logistics and advanced manufacturing.

Answer: Skills England is developing a robust evidence base on skills needs at national, sectoral and place-based level, helping to align training provision with workforce demand and support economic growth. Local skills needs in Runcorn and Helsby are considered through this ongoing labour market analysis, as well as the newly published Cheshire & Warrington LSIP, developed by the local designated Employer Representative Body and working with the Combined Authority.

Secondary information