Conservative controlled Buckinghamshire Council has secured £6 million in Adult Skills funding following formal confirmation of its devolution deal with the Government, marking a significant step forward in local decision-making.
This funding will now be directly controlled by the Council, allowing Buckinghamshire to shape a skills system that responds to the real needs of local residents, employers and communities. It represents a major milestone in the county’s ambition to deliver more locally driven solutions that support jobs, growth and opportunity.
Adult Skills funding supports people aged 19 and over to gain qualifications, improve essential skills such as English, maths and digital, and access vocational training. With local control, the Council can now tailor programmes more effectively, helping residents retrain, upskill and progress in their careers, while also supporting businesses to find the skilled workforce they need.
Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, Steven Broadbent, said:
“Having direct control of Adult Skills funding means we can ensure this investment is targeted where it will make the greatest difference locally. It will help our residents access good, local employment and build on the strong work already underway across the county.
Fundamentally, this deal is about ensuring people in Buckinghamshire have the opportunity to gain the skills they need to thrive. It is also a real boost for local businesses, enabling us to focus investment on developing the workforce needed right here in Buckinghamshire.”
The devolved funding will support high-quality training aligned with local priorities and employer demand. In its first year, commissioning will focus on key areas including English and maths, digital skills and AI, health and social care, early years, construction, net zero, and leadership and management.
By working closely with colleges, training providers, employers and community organisations, Buckinghamshire Council will ensure this funding delivers meaningful outcomes, helping people into work, supporting career progression, and strengthening the local economy.
