Local skills plan 2026 to 2029
This local skills plan for the Black Country sets out the key actions that sector stakeholders within the region are committed to delivering.
Created by using a range of insight and data, the plan reflects the current needs of education providers, employers and other key organisations in the sport and physical activity space in the Black Country.
It aligns with broader regional strategies and initiatives to contribute to a healthy and active community supported by a representative, inclusive and skilled workforce.
The plan is divided into the following recommendations:
Improve recruitment and retention Â
Support employers in building strategies that provide diverse recruitment pathways and increase retention through prioritising professional development.Â
Raise awareness of career pathwaysÂ
Use sector career guidance and local stories to inspire and educate career explorers about the opportunities available in the region.Â
Connect with other sectorsÂ
Develop and strengthen local partnerships between sector organisations and external stakeholders to create alignment on shared economic challenges and health priorities.  Â
Supported and funded by Sport England and the National Lottery
Local skills accountability board
The Black Country Sport and Physical Activity Sector Local Skills Accountability Board (LSAB) is a collaboration between employers, education providers and other skills and sector partners.
It is managed by the sector’s chartered professional body – CIMSPA. The project is supported and funded by Sport England.
The board’s work is now centred on delivering its sport and physical activity sector local skills plan – Black Country: 2026–2029.
Board lead
Chair
Alex Howard , Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer, The Inspire GroupÂ
Board geographical area
The Black Country is a region in the West Midlands covering Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and the City of Wolverhampton. The Black Country’s geographical boundaries are not formally defined, but it is generally accepted to include the four boroughs as part of the region. Â
The Black Country is united by one active partnership – Active Black Country – and one integrated care board.Â
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