The IEP’s Preparing for the Future of Employability: Supporting Connect to Work on 27 January brought together professionals from across the employability sector, including local authorities, housing associations, commissioners, and other stakeholders, to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing landscape. Together, over 90 attendees explored strategies to strengthen organisations, support communities, and deliver better outcomes for those they serve.
Riza Aparici MIEP and Carly Parker MIEP, both IEP Partnership Managers, reflected on the significance of the event, stating, “Our Preparing for the Future of Employability – Supporting Connect to Work event was a significant step in supporting organisations to future-proof their workforce under this year’s new contract. By bringing together key stakeholders including local and combined authorities, housing associations, employability and training providers, and specialist health services, we created a dynamic space for collaboration, innovation, and shared success.”
As employability provision underwent significant transformation, local authorities, housing associations, commissioners, and service providers adapted to meet evolving needs. Services became more focused on helping individuals overcome complex barriers to achieve meaningful and sustainable work. The IEP played a key role in this change, offering expertise, resources, and practical tools to support organisations in creating lasting impact.
Attendees discovered how the IEP’s network could enhance employability programmes through streamlined recruitment processes, evidence-based training, and the Quality Improvement Framework (QIF), a powerful tool for continuous service improvement. The event also provided a platform for meaningful discussions about shared challenges, innovative solutions, and best practices.
Liz Millington FIEP, Senior Programmes Manager at Central London Forward and now UK Member of the Month, joined as a guest speaker. She shared insights into how her organisation was adapting to change and leveraging IEP membership to empower London boroughs. Pat Russell FIEP, IEP Chair, and James McKenna MIEP, IEP Project Manager, also spoke, highlighting the QIF’s role in driving excellence and improving outcomes across the sector.
Riza Aparici MIEP and Carly Parker MIEP further emphasised the value of collaboration, stating, “With insights from guest speaker Liz Millington, we showcased the power of partnership with the IEP, demonstrating how investing in staff development strengthens organisations and transforms lives. The enthusiasm and engagement at the event proved that when we work together, we build a stronger, more resilient workforce. We encourage all organisations to reach out and take full advantage of the invaluable support the IEP has to offer.”
The session offered a unique opportunity for collaboration, equipping attendees with practical tools and new connections within the employability sector. Whether commissioners, programme leaders, or practitioners, participants left with fresh insights and strategies to help their organisations thrive in this period of transformation.
The event provided an engaging space for professionals to connect with peers, expert enablers, and innovative thinkers, gaining valuable tools to help their organisations adapt and succeed in the evolving employability landscape.
