This report argues that devolution presents an opportunity to bring employment support closer to local communities and labour markets – but cautions against creating a fragmented system that could lead to inconsistencies in service quality, outcomes and access across different parts of the country. 

Drawing on evidence from 24 organisations across the employability sector, the report examines how nationally commissioned programmes have successfully combined local delivery with national scale, supporting millions of people into and towards work while generating significant value for participants, taxpayers and wider society. 

The report argues that policymakers should avoid viewing devolution as a choice between national and local delivery. Instead, it sets out a vision for a balanced model that combines the benefits of local integration and flexibility with national standards, accountability and economies of scale. 

As government moves ahead with plans to devolve employment support, the employment support sector is ready to support the transition, bringing decades of expertise, delivery experience and local insight to help make devolution a success.