Feedback from the BIA members has been instrumental in shaping policies that affect access to skills and talent pathways for the UK bioscience industry. It provided insight into current challenges, barriers and opportunities for the sector and helped influence policymakers on the UK points-based immigration system (PBS).
Thanks to member evidence and positive actions, the BIA supported several submissions on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), contributing to APPG on Equality in STEM and supplying evidence to the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee enquiry into diversity in STEM. We have also been part of the newly formed Medicines Manufacturing Challenge Fund EDI Community, led by Innovate UK, as part of a broader network of organisations sharing ideas and action plans to address EDI challenges.
If you would like to be part of this community, please get in touch with me at [email protected]
Skills England
The Prime Minister and Education Secretary have launched Skills England to unify the fragmented skills landscape and boost the nation’s skills. Richard Pennycook CBE has been appointed interim Chair.
Skills are vital for economic growth, yet skills shortages have doubled between 2017 and 2022, now accounting for 36% of job vacancies.
Skills England will unite government, businesses, training providers, and unions to meet future skills needs across all regions. It supports local areas in developing skilled workforces, particularly in construction and healthcare, and aims to reduce reliance on overseas workers.
Skills England will be established in phases over the next 9 to 12 months, with functions transferring from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE). The first phase includes setting up the organisation within the DfE and assessing future skills needs while engaging with employers. A permanent board, Chair, and CEO will be appointed in due course.
The government will also bring forward a comprehensive strategy for post-16 education to support the development of a skilled workforce and drive economic growth.
Immigration and visas
UK Points-based immigration system
UK Points-based system
The UK's points-based immigration system: an introduction for employers
This guide provides an overview of the points-based immigration system and sets out the steps employers should take to adapt their business.
Migration Advisory Committee
Migration Advisory Committee
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is an independent, non-statutory, non-time limited, non-departmental public body that advises the government on migration issues.
UKRI Global talent visa
Employers and researchers, discover the benefits of the Global Talent visa. This specialist visa allows researchers and experts to work in the UK, contributing to cutting-edge projects. Whether you're an employer looking to bring in top talent or a researcher needing a visa to stay, find out how the Global Talent visa can facilitate your goals. Visit the UKRI's page for detailed information on eligibility and the application process.
Guidance for businesses offering work to people coming from Ukraine
Guidance for businesses offering work to people coming from Ukraine
This publication provides guidance for companies considering making offers of employment to people coming to the UK from Ukraine.
Futures (Life Sciences Council) - Life Science 2030 Skills Strategy
Developed under the guidance of sector employers and in collaboration with the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), the BioIndustry Association (BIA), and with support from the Office for Life Sciences (OLS), the Life Sciences Council created the Life Sciences 2030 Skills Strategy. This action plan addresses significant skill shortfalls in the life sciences sector, aiming to ensure a globally competitive UK bioscience industry. This milestone exemplifies the ongoing partnership between the Government and the Life Sciences sector, ensuring the UK remains a premier destination for industry investment, continuous medicines discovery, and advancements in innovative therapeutic approaches.
This report indicates that the Life Sciences sector has the potential to create approximately 133,000 jobs over the next decade. Key to this success will be the enhancement of digital and computational skills, statistical literacy, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a result of our work in the Futures group, which we are proud to be part of, we focus on ensuring that Science & Technology employers have the necessary skills for success. Our mission includes promoting better training standards through employer collaborations, identifying critical skills gaps using evidence-based research, and advocating for improved training and education policies. Additionally, we support businesses in implementing training effectively and provide career information and guidance to help build a future-ready workforce. Through our efforts, we significantly impact the availability and quality of skills in science and technology.
The Life Sciences 2030 Skills Strategy is another key milestone in delivering on the recommendations of the Life Sciences Industrial Strategy and the subsequent Life Sciences Sector Deals.