SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme Annual Implementation Report

Transcription

1 SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme Annual Implementation Report 1. Background: SkillsActive is the Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure and Learning. Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) are independent, employer-led, UK-wide organisations designed to build a skills system that is driven by employer demand. There are currently 25 SSCs covering 90% of the UK economy. Working in partnership with employers and key stakeholders, SkillsActive leads and supports the industry s drive to succeed, by ensuring the supply of skills to meet the industry s needs. The active leisure and learning is made up of five sub-sectors: sport and recreation health and fitness playwork the outdoors caravans. SkillsActive is part of a network of SSCs (the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils) which brings together employers, trade unions and professional bodies working with Government and its agencies to develop the skills that UK business needs. SkillsActive s unique contribution is to lead the development of the expanding skilled and qualified workforce of paid industry professionals and active volunteers needed to deliver the increases in active participation that will ensure the industry s on-going success and continued growth. 1

2 2. Preface: SkillsActive has adopted the principle that in the conduct of public business in Wales it will treat English and Welsh on a basis of equality. SkillsActive recognises that individuals can express their views and needs better in their preferred language and that enabling them to use their preferred language is a matter of good practice rather than a concession, and that the denial of that right could place them at a real disadvantage. SkillsActive therefore offers the public the right to choose which language to use in all dealings with the SSC and also applies this principle to key partners and stakeholders. Over the last few years, SkillsActive has been working closely with the Welsh Language Board, and the other SSCs in relation to the design of its Welsh Language Scheme. Following a period of public consultation, SkillsActive submitted its Welsh Language Scheme to the Welsh Language Board, and this was formally approved under Section 14 (1) of the Welsh Language Act on the 29 th March SkillsActive initially nominated the Head of Home Country Development, and the Executive Committee to have overall responsibility for the implementation and monitoring of the scheme. However, following an internal restructure overall responsibility within SkillsActive currently sits with the Operations Director (Employer Engagement and Partnerships). However, day-to-day management of the scheme has continually been provided by the National Manager (Wales). The delivery of the Welsh Language Scheme has been identified as a key deliverable within the Action Plan The progress and implementation of this Action Plan is a consistent agenda item at the quarterly meetings of the Executive Committee. These quarterly meetings provide the mechanism for disseminating progress and addressing any potential shortcomings within SkillsActive s Welsh Language Scheme. This implementation report aims to provide an update against the key commitments that were agreed with the Welsh Language Board following the schemes approval. The content of this report has been approved by the employer-led Executive Committee, which drives forward the work of the SSC in Wales. The report has also been aligned to the guidelines produced by the Welsh Language Board, and the agreed timetable for activity. The view of the employer-led Executive Committee for Wales is that SkillsActive has delivered the key elements of the Welsh Language Scheme on a basis of what is both practical and reasonable. 2

3 3. Administrative Procedures: The National Manager (Wales) has ensured that all staff in Wales (and across the UK) has received guidance on the scheme and advice on what is expected of them. An internal update has been produced to inform all SkillsActive staff of the general principles related to the Welsh Language Scheme. Relevant documentation has also been uploaded onto the SkillsActive web-site and intranet. The implications of the Welsh Language scheme also featured as an agenda item at the SkillsActive Senior Management Team meeting (12/5/08). Within this meeting senior managers were tasked with the responsibility to once again circulate the general principles to their respective teams. From a Welsh perspective, issues related to implementing the Welsh Language Scheme are regularly discussed at the quarterly staff meetings. 4. Administrative Issues: 4.1 Policies and new initiatives In devising new policies and initiatives, SkillsActive considers the Welsh language dimension and ensures that they are consistent with the Welsh Language Scheme. SkillsActive has continued to promote and facilitate the usage of Welsh wherever possible. When embarking upon relevant recruitment processes, SkillsActive has adhered to the Welsh Language Scheme which has ensured that the Welsh Language requirements of the advertised posts are clearly articulated. New recruits (within Wales) have been made aware of the commitments outlined in the Welsh Language Scheme as part of the induction procedure, and key considerations are taken into account in the design of individual work programmes. There is also the option to discuss general work progress and pertinent issues within monthly 1-1 meetings with relevant Welsh based staff. 4.2 Corresponding with the public Skills Active s official headed paper to be used in Wales is bilingual making it clear that correspondence is welcomed in either English or Welsh. SkillsActive has set a target date of 10 working days when replying to all correspondence, including that received in English and Welsh. Every letter that is received in Welsh is given a signed response in Welsh (when a response is required), and SkillsActive continues to update a database of organisations wishing to correspond with the SSC through the medium of Welsh. SkillsActive 3

4 has also adopted the principle that all circular / standard letters and other general correspondence distributed across Wales will be bilingual, for example, the quarterly newsletter entitled Engage. As SkillsActive s Welsh speaking function is limited at this moment in time, the SSC has developed appropriate relationships with approved translators to ensure that arrangements are in place to respond to Welsh communication in a prompt manner. 4.3 Telephone Communication All calls to the office are greeted bilingually, and all Welsh based staff have been advised on how to deal with any telephone calls through the medium of the Welsh language. All Welsh based staff have recorded voic messages in both English and Welsh, and a target of 5 working days has been set for replying to telephone messages (left in English or Welsh). Should non-welsh speaking members of staff answer a call that is through the medium of Welsh that member of staff will politely explain the situation and offer the individual the choice of submitting their enquiry in a written format in Welsh to ensure that they receive a response in Welsh. Alternatively, they will be given the opportunity to continue with the call in English. However, all callers will be made aware that conversing bilingually isn t seen as an inconvenience. 4.4 Meetings do not currently hold public meetings in Wales. However, within 2008 SkillsActive held 2 major events (invitation only): 1. Conference 2. National Playwork Conference All literature associated with both events was made available bilingually within the delegate packs, and simultaneous translation was provided for the Playwork Conference. If were to conduct public meetings in the future, it will welcome contributions in either English or Welsh. For facilitation purposes, and to further knowledge and awareness, continue to update a database of those organisations wishing to correspond with the SSC through the medium of the Welsh language. 4

5 In relation to non-public meetings, currently any person wishing to conduct private or one-to-one meetings with is welcome to do so in either English or Welsh. However, it is important to realise that the number of Welsh speaking personnel within SkillsActive is limited, and therefore, ensures that when arranging the meeting the attendee will be offered: 1. the opportunity to discuss the matter in English 2. the opportunity to sending their query in written form in Welsh in order that they can receive a written response in Welsh 3. the use of a translator 4.5 Corporate Identity SkillsActive has developed a bilingual corporate identity in Wales and has translated its logo and standard information that is included in letter headed paper, business cards, compliment slips, signatures and various promotional / advertising material that is targeted at Wales active leisure and learning sector. This material was previously approved by the Welsh Language Board. Members of the public are also able to access information via the SkillsActive web-site in both English and Welsh. Although SkillsActive s UK homepage is not bilingual, it clearly includes a sub section on SkillsActive in Wales. The Welsh section includes a bilingual homepage with subsequent pages available in both languages, and each page provides a clear indication of language choice. These pages are also revised and updated simultaneously and relevant translations are often provided by Welsh Language Board quality assured translators. However, SkillsActive are fully aware that the Welsh language dimension will need improving as part of the web-site development that will take place in the near future. 4.6 Publications SkillsActive endeavours to ensure that public documentation specifically aimed at Wales active leisure and learning sector is bilingual. SkillsActive has exceeded the requirements that were set in its Welsh Language Scheme and has ensured that the following documentation is available through the web-site in both English and Welsh languages: SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme Welsh Language Scheme post consultation report SkillsActive core offer for Higher Education 5

6 Conwy Workforce Development Report. Torfaen Workforce Development Report chairs report 2008 Active Passport for Playwork flyer Quarterly briefing sheets (entitled Engage ) Playwork Basic Skills Employer Toolkit Executive Committee terms of reference Sector Skills Agreement Summary report Impact of the recession upon the sector Sector Qualifications Strategy Action Plan for Wales WBLP Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching Marketing Literature 4.7 Forms, Leaflets and other Literature SkillsActive also endeavours to ensure that all forms and associated explanatory material for use by the public in Wales will be issued bilingually in accordance with the guidelines detailed in the Welsh Language Scheme. Following approval of the SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme, no difficulties have been reported in relation to accessing Welsh Language versions of documentation. However, should issues be reported in the future they would be acted upon and documented in an issue log. 4.8 Press Releases and Notices SkillsActive has been unable to ensure that every advertisement and statement to the press and media in Wales has been fully bilingual. However, SkillsActive has ensured that it conducts advertising and publicity activities in Wales bilingually where it is both practical and reasonable. As an example, press releases and notices are sent out in English to those media known to be monolingual English, and provisions are in place to ensure that publicity sent to media known to be monolingual Welsh is through the Welsh Language. 4.9 Third Party Arrangements SkillsActive sends all material that requires translation to an approved external translator and procedures are in place to proof read these translations by internal Welsh speaking staff. When SkillsActive contracts with a third party organisation in relation to specific Welsh based activity it encourages adherence to the conditions set out within the Welsh Language Scheme. External contractors are often provided with 6

7 written guidance, for example, A Guide to Bilingual Design for dealing with and designing bilingual material. 4. Staff Related Issues: The office has recently relocated to Cardiff Bay and the address is as follows: One Caspian Point Cardiff Waterside Pierhead Street Cardiff Bay Cardiff CF10 4DQ Tel (0) There are currently in the region of 100 staff employed by SkillsActive across the UK. At the moment, there are 4 members of staff based at its Welsh Office in Cardiff. Three of these four members of staff are relatively new to the SSC as they have all been employed within the last 18 months or so. As a first language Welsh speaker, one of the four members of staff is able to converse through the medium of the Welsh language. The function currently comprises the following individuals: 1. Richard Tobutt, National Manager Wales 2. Idris Evans, Development Officer (Welsh speaker) 3. Sara Hale, Workforce Development Manager 4. Carlie Ennis, Administrative Assistant (starts in Jan 2010) SkillsActive has adopted a bilingual service when recruiting new members of staff at its office in Wales. All posts are advertised bilingually and SkillsActive has publicised the fact that Welsh language skills have been desirable for all posts, thus encouraging Welsh speakers to join its workforce. However, it is important to stress that Welsh language speakers, with the underpinning knowledge and experience, are often difficult to recruit. At the moment SkillsActive does not operate a Staff Language Skills Strategy, but it will assess the need for such a strategy as part of the human resource planning process. Naturally, this will be driven by the demand for Welsh services across Wales active leisure and learning sector. 7

8 6. Provisions 6.1 Research Research activity has been limited since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved, but SkillsActive s National Manager (Wales) has communicated the research requirements of the Welsh Language Scheme to SkillsActive s Head of Research (Muriel Bankhead). When SkillsActive embarks upon new LMI exercises specific to Wales it will attempt to identify specific skills gaps and shortages related to the Welsh language, and disseminate findings accordingly. However, On behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government, SkillsActive has embarked upon a project in partnership with Skills for Health, which has lead to the production of a workforce development plan to underpin the delivery of key sector specific strategies. As part of the consultation process, key stakeholders have been given the opportunity to contribute through the medium of the Welsh language. SkillsActive has regularly adopted an information and advocacy role to providers in an attempt to expand sector specific bilingual provision. Through the Sector Step Programme, SkillsActive nominated a work based learning provider to deliver the Level 3 Advanced Instructor course to around 138 local authority health and fitness practitioners. The ability to deliver through the medium of the Welsh language was one of the key aspects of the tender process. actively research and react to the Welsh Language skills needs of the sector as part of any forthcoming research activity. Relevant research will be conducted bilingually, and will include questions on Welsh medium skills needs and demands. The findings will be published bilingually, and will be disseminated highlighting implications for education and training activity. 6.2 Information and Guidance Since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved, progress has been limited in relation to a Welsh specific careers advice and information service. Also, it is worth noting that this is a responsibility for SSCs that has not been given paramount importance by either the Welsh Assembly Government of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills. However, SkillsActive has produced several bilingual case studies that may encourage new entrants into the sector and these are accessible through the SkillsActive web-site. 8

9 SkillsActive has also worked in partnership with the PDC Education Enrichment programme to provide bilingual careers resources for schools including lesson plans, quizzes, student activities and teacher guidance in a CD ROM format. Information upon the availability of Welsh medium provision is promoted across the sector using Learning Choices and the Database of Accredited Qualifications Wales (DACW) as a basis. Finally, if SkillsActive develops a Welsh specific careers advice and information service for professionals working within the industry (or for those wishing to enter the industry), it will ensure that it takes into account the needs of the Welsh speaking public. 6.3 Sector Development and Partnerships The Welsh Assembly Governments desire for SSCs to produce Sector Workforce Development Plans reduced once activity became more focussed upon the production and implementation of the Sector Skills Agreement (SSA). SkillsActive has previously worked in partnership with employers and key stakeholders when developing the SSA which brings together employers, providers and funders of education and training with the key purpose of developing a more demand led system of public investment in skills. The SSA provides a vehicle for addressing the skills agenda across Wales, and SkillsActive has agreed a range action plans with key stakeholders including WAG, Careers Wales, HEFCW, Job Centre plus and the Wales TUC when addressing key challenges. Therefore, and in summary, the SSA can be considered the vehicle for SSCs to influence the decisions taken by the Assembly Government that relate to skills development, and a summary of the SSA is downloadable through the SkillsActive website (through English or Welsh). As the SSA process is driven by the needs of employers, it is important to stress that the Welsh Language dimension may not have been identified as being significant as part of the process. It is also relevant that the SSA was produced when the Welsh Language Scheme was in its infancy, and therefore, more prominence would need to be given to Welsh Language issues in the future. Again, research and react to the Welsh Language skills needs of the sector as part of any forthcoming research activity. Relevant research will be conducted bilingually, and will include questions on Welsh medium skills needs and demands. As a result of the relicensing of SSCs (including SkillsActive), and due to the fact that the SSA process is somewhat dated, be working with both the UKCES and the Welsh Assembly Government 9

10 as part of the new performance management process. Led by DCELLS, be working with the Assembly Government to agree a Wales Action Plan that will help shape the future relationship and the key deliverables for SkillsActive in Wales. This document will build upon the former SSA process, and again will be driven by employer demand. This process will allow SkillsActive and the Assembly Government to collaboratively address Welsh language specific issues, but only where demand can be articulated. SkillsActive was previously engaged with the Welsh Assembly Government through the DELLS Welsh Medium Vocational Training Panel (along with other priority sectors). However, this group has since been dissolved, and therefore, the mechanism for agreeing sector bilingual skills needs should be explored with the Assembly Government. Again, need to work with DCELLS through the new performance management process to explore how the sector bilingual skills needs can be better articulated and addressed in the future. 6.4 Training Frameworks SkillsActive has communicated with relevant awarding bodies to ensure that bilingual course resources are made available bilingually. SkillsActive has also continued to encourage the development of bilingual standards and qualifications where there is suitable demand, and where additional funding is available for translation costs. As an example, SkillsActive has translated suites of National Occupational Standards including L2 Activity Leadership and the Management and Leadership NOS (in partnership with the MSC). Both sets of NOS are downloadable through the SkillsActive web-site in either English or Welsh. SkillsActive has also engaged with DCELLS in relation to the research into the usage, benefits, added value and impact of Welsh Translations of NOS, and recommendations will be taken forward within the Welsh Assembly Government Welsh Medium Vocational Qualification team. As part of this process, the Assembly Government has produced a matrix that identifies the availability of bilingual NOS that can be broken down on a sector level. Where considerable demand is apparent, continue to explore potential sources of funding to ensure relevant suites of NOS are available through the Welsh language. 10

11 As highlighted within the Welsh Assembly Government skills strategy entitled Skills That Work for Wales, Sector Skills Councils (including SkillsActive) will advise WAG on the vocational qualifications they see as priorities for funding, ensuring that the supply of skills is clearly informed by sector needs. SkillsActive has produced a Sector Skills Agreement (SSA), and this maps the skills needed by employers and how they can be supplied. The Sector Qualifications Strategy (based on the SSA) will indicate what learning provision and qualifications are required to meet those needs. The Assembly Government will also expect new vocational qualifications and units to reflect the Sector Qualification Strategy. Following a period of consultation with key stakeholders, SkillsActive has recently finalised its Action Plan for Wales which has been approved by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES). The underpinning SQS Implementation Plan for Wales is downloadable through the SkillsActive web-site in either English or Welsh. Finally, and as part of the agenda in Wales, SkillsActive is working in partnership with the Assembly Government to pilot Work Based Learning Pathways (WBLP) which will allow young people to combine their academic studies with a blend of vocational orientated learning and work experience. SkillsActive are currently working with the networks within Cardiff, Gwynedd, nys Mon, Denbighshire, Pembrokeshire, Vale of Glamorgan, Conwy and Neath Port Talbot as part of a phased roll out. The WBLP in Sports Management Leadership and Coaching is currently being delivered through the Welsh Language in Welsh medium schools. This development certainly goes some of the way to promote the advantages of bilingual skills within the sector and can be considered an example of SkillsActive supporting collaborative networks at a national and regional level. 7. Timetable The following table reports upon the specific progress since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved in March The table reports against the key deliverables identified within the scheme, and they have been aligned to the agreed timetable that has been set. Finally, it is important to mention that no complaints have been received since the scheme was formally endorsed by the Welsh Language Board. 11

12 TARGET ACTION (COMMITMENT) TIMESCALE / COMPLETED FURTHER DETAILS (PARAGRAPH) DEADLINE (/N) Internal update produced to inform SkillsActive are in the process of SkillsActive s staff will be made aware of the Scheme. Newsletters, the website and the Workforce Development Plan will make reference to the scheme. all staff of the scheme s approval. Issues related to implementation regularly discussed at the staff meetings (held quarterly). Relevant documentation has been posted upon the SkillsActive website and intranet. The approval of the Welsh Language Scheme has featured as an agenda item as part of internal SMT meetings (12/5/08). developing a new staff handbook which will be issued to new members of staff across the UK. It is anticipated that this will contain a reference to the SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme. The Welsh Language scheme features as a key aspect of the Action Plan New recruits (within Wales) have been made aware of the commitments outlined in the Welsh Language Scheme as part of induction procedures. 3.2 The SkillsActive Welsh Language Further reference to linguistic publish its commitment to linguistic equality in business plan and sectoral updates. Scheme is featured in the Action Plan for Wales This was also submitted to the UKCES as part of the SSC relicensing process. SkillsActive s commitment to linguistic equality is regularly featured through the quarterly equality will need to be referenced within the new and emerging SSC performance management criterion that is being shaped by WAG and SSCs as part of an initial pilot process. Welsh sector briefings entitled Engage SkillsActive has informally audited /N the way in which its services to the public is organised in order to 12

13 undertake an audit of the way in which each of its services to the public is organised. determine how it may best proceed towards implementing the principle of equality. To some extent this is shaped by requests for bilingual information by the Welsh speaking public. SkillsActive has developed a template that allows Welsh based members of staff to record activity related to linguistic equality. 4.3 and 4.4 When SkillsActive embarks upon new LMI exercises specific to Wales it will attempt to identify specific skills gaps and shortages related to the Welsh language, and disseminate findings accordingly. SkillsActive s National Manager (Wales) has communicated the research requirements of the Welsh Language Scheme to SkillsActive s Head of Research. However, research activity has been limited since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved. On behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government, SkillsActive has embarked upon a project in partnership with Skills for Health, which has lead to the production of a workforce development plan to underpin the delivery of key sector specific strategies. As part of the consultation process, key stakeholders have been given the opportunity to contribute through the medium of the Welsh language. SkillsActive has regularly adopted an information and advocacy role to providers in an attempt to expand sector specific bilingual provision. Through the Sector Step Programme, SkillsActive nominated a work based learning provider to deliver the Level 3 Advanced /N actively research and react to the Welsh Language skills needs of the sector as part of any forthcoming research activity. Relevant research will be conducted bilingually, and will include questions on Welsh medium skills needs and demands. The findings will be published bilingually, and will be disseminated highlighting implications for education and training activity. 13

14 Instructor course to around 138 local authority health and fitness practitioners. The ability to deliver through the medium of the Welsh language was one of the key aspects of the tender process. 4.5 If SkillsActive develop a Welsh specific careers advice and information service for professionals working within the industry (or for those wishing to enter the industry), it will ensure that it takes into account the needs of the Welsh speaking public. 4.6 ensure the Sector Workforce Development Plan is fully bilingual. Since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved, progress has been limited in relation to a Welsh specific careers advice and information service. However. SkillsActive has produced several bilingual case studies that may encourage new entrants into the sector. These are accessible through the SkillsActive web-site. SkillsActive has also worked in partnership with the PDC Education Enrichment programme to provide bilingual careers resources for schools including lesson plans, quizzes, student activities and teacher guidance in a CD ROM format. Information upon the availability of Welsh medium provision is promoted across the sector using Learning Choices and the Database of Accredited Qualifications Wales (DACW) as a basis. The Assembly Governments desire for SSCs to produce Sector Workforce Development Plans reduced once activity became more focussed upon the production and implementation of the Sector Skills Agreement. However, SkillsActive has exceeded minimum December 2009 /N As discussed with the Welsh Language Board when developing the Scheme, the funding implications to developing a Welsh specific careers and advice service would need to be addressed before activity can progress. By August 2007 continue to ensure that future Welsh specific documentation is available through the Welsh language, and is downloadable through the SkillsActive website. 14

15 requirements and has translated various documentation, which is also downloadable through the SkillsActive web-site. 4.6 work closely with DELLS (through the Welsh Medium Vocational Training Panel) to agree sector bilingual skills needs for the sector. 4.7 encourage the development of bilingual standards and qualifications where there is suitable demand, and where additional funding is available for translation costs. SkillsActive were previously engaged through the DELLS Welsh Medium Vocational Training Panel (along with other priority sectors). However, this group has since been dissolved. Therefore, the mechanism for agreeing sector bilingual skills needs should be clarified. SkillsActive has promoted the advantages of bilingual skills across the active leisure and learning sector. Where specific demand can be articulated, SkillsActive has translated suites of National Occupational Standards including L2 Activity Leadership and the Management and Leadership NOS (in partnership with the MSC). SkillsActive has been engaged with DCELLS in relation to the research into the usage, benefits, added value and impact of Welsh Translations of NOS, and recommendations will be taken forward within the WAG Welsh Medium VQ team. SkillsActive has communicated with relevant awarding bodies to ensure that bilingual course resources are made available bilingually. N need to work with DCELLS through the new performance management process to explore how the sector bilingual skills needs can be better articulated. Where considerable demand is apparent, continue to explore potential sources of funding to ensure relevant suites of NOS are available through the Welsh language. 15

16 5.1 s official headed ensure that all written communication complies with the standards listed in this scheme. paper in Wales includes statements in both English and Welsh. A target date of 10 days is employed when replying to all correspondence (English and Welsh). Every letter received in Welsh is given a signed reply in Welsh (when a response is required). continue to update a database of those organisations wishing to correspond with the SSC through the medium of Welsh. All circular, standard letters are circulated bilingually. Arrangements are in place to respond to Welsh communication in a prompt manner. SkillsActive continues to use the services of approved external translators, for which a list of contacts has been developed. 5.2 New software has not been /N When purchasing new software, consider the potential for investing in purchased since the Welsh Language Scheme was approved. However, there are occasions where SkillsActive use the Cysgliad software package to correct Welsh language errors in documentation. packages which deal with more than one language in commands and entries. 5.3 All calls to the Should the National Manager office are greeted bilingually, and all Welsh based staff have been advised (Wales) post become vacant, it will be advertised confirming 16

17 greet all telephone accordingly. Therefore, all callers are that bilingual skills will be calls to the Welsh made aware that conversing desirable. office bilingually, bilingually isn t an inconvenience. and will promote All based staff the opportunity for have recorded voic messages in the public to both English and Welsh. communicate through the medium of Welsh. A target of 5 working days has been set for replying to telephone messages (left in English or Welsh). 5.4 SkillsActive do not currently hold From July 2008 Should SkillsActive conduct ensure that contributions are welcomed in Welsh or English at public meetings public meetings in Wales. However, within 2008 SkillsActive held 2 major events (invitation only): 1. Conference 2. National Playwork Conference All literature associated with both public meetings in the future, it will welcome contributions in English or Welsh and it will address the commitments outlined in the Welsh Language Scheme. and ensure that all events was made available bilingually literature within the delegate packs, and publicising and simultaneous translation was promoting the provided for the Playwork meeting will be Conference. bilingual. 5.5 Any person wishing to conduct From September All non-public meetings at SkillsActive s office in Wales will be offered in either Welsh or English. private 1-1 meetings with is welcome to do so in either English or Welsh. Should this occur appropriate arrangements will be made to help facilitate discussion SkillsActive has adopted a bilingual The office has adopt a fully bilingual corporate identity at its office in Wales. corporate identity in Wales and has involved the Welsh Language Board in the design of its branding. The logo, headed paper, compliment slips, signatures, business cards all include a Welsh Language recently relocated; therefore, it will need to consider the impact upon the corporate identity. 17

18 dimension. 6.2 SkillsActive has established a February 2008 SkillsActive to continue to establish a bilingual web site as part of the main web-site. bilingual section as part of the main web-site. Therefore, members of the public are able to access information in both English and Welsh. The Welsh section includes a bilingual adhere to the Welsh Language scheme when updating the Welsh section of the main SkillsActive web-site. homepage with subsequent pages in both English and Welsh. Each page also provides an indication of language choice. English and Welsh pages of the website are revised and up-dated simultaneously. 6.3 ensure that any The office has ensure that all permanent and temporary signage at the SkillsActive signage within the office will be bilingual, ensuring that both languages are treated equally in terms of size, quality and prominence. recently relocated; therefore, it will need to consider the impact upon signage. Wales office is bilingual; both languages are treated equally; and are proof read by an approved translator. 6.4 SkillsActive has exceeded requirements SkillsActive to ensure that ensure that new public documentation and has ensured that the following documentation is available through both English and Welsh: SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme. future Welsh specific documentation is available through English and Welsh (via the SkillsActive web-site) specifically aimed at the Welsh active leisure and learning sector in Wales Welsh Language Scheme post consultation report. SkillsActive core offer for Higher Education. 18

19 will be bi-lingual. Conwy Workforce Development Report. Torfaen Workforce Development Report. chairs report Active Passport for Playwork flyer. Quarterly briefing sheets (entitled Engage ). Playwork Basic Skills Employer Toolkit. Executive Committee terms of reference. Sector Skills Agreement Summary. report Impact of the recession upon the sector. Sector Qualifications Strategy Action Plan for Wales. WBLP Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching Marketing Literature. 6.5 Relevant forms and associated From April 2009 ensure that all material issued bilingually as and when required. forms and associated explanatory material for use by the public in Wales will be issued bilingually including: Welsh advertisements, press releases and notices. 19

20 6.6 Press releases and notices are sent Should SkillsActive send releases ensure that it conducts advertising and publicity activities out in English to those media known to be monolingual English. These provisions are organised by the National Manager (Wales) and the Communications Manager. to media know to be monolingual Welsh, it will do so through the Welsh language. in Wales bilingually. 6.7 SkillsActive continue to conduct From December continue to ensure that all public notices and staff recruitment advertising appears in Wales in Welsh and English. Welsh related advertising and publicity activities bilingually. However, publicity aimed at Welsh language publications will be in Welsh only and UK publications will be English only. Exhibition and information stands are available through both the English and 2007 advertise posts bilingually (for which fluency in Welsh is desirable). Welsh language. Since the SkillsActive Welsh Language Scheme was approved, SkillsActive has taken on 3 new members of staff. All of these posts have been advertised bilingually, and have also stated that Welsh language skills are desirable. 7.1 assess the need for a /N assess the need for a Linguistic Skills Strategy as part of the human resources planning process. Linguistic Skills Strategy when required. This will be driven by demand for Welsh services across Wales active leisure and learning sector. Internal training requirements will also be identified as part of the process. 7.2 SkillsActive supports the continue to support staff who implementation of its Welsh Language Scheme by encouraging and promote the uptake of Welsh language training as part of its 20

21 wish to learn Welsh or improve their ability to learn Welsh and arrange relevant training programmes. supporting Welsh based members of staff to learn Welsh. continue to allocate financial resources, provide dictionaries and other reference material. The National Manager (Wales) has completed several Welsh short courses, and has recently successfully completed the Welsh for Adults Mynediad course, before progressing onto Sylfaen. People Development Scheme (appraisal process). 7.3 and 7.4 Since the SkillsActive Welsh adopt a bilingual service when recruiting new members of staff at its office in Wales - as listed in section 7.3. Language Scheme was approved, SkillsActive has taken on 3 new members of staff. All of these posts have been advertised bilingually, and have stated that Welsh language skills are desirable to carry out the role. When recruiting staff, SkillsActive publicise the fact that Welsh speakers are welcome to join its workforce. 9.0 SkillsActive has ensured that ensure that services offered by third parties are agreements with third parties are consistent with the terms of the Welsh Language Scheme. Two specific examples can be highlighted: consistent with the 1. The delivery of training through the terms of the Sector Step Up programme (Welsh Language Scheme. language delivery was a key aspect of the tender process) 2. Working with WaveHill consultancy, SkillsActive ensured a clear Welsh dimension when producing a Workforce Development Plan to 21

22 underpin the delivery of key WAG strategies SkillsActive has aimed to monitor, By April 2009 /N Prepare an internal progress report on the scheme s implementation at review and evaluate the implementation of its Welsh Language Scheme at 12-monthly intervals. management teams every 6 months Annual compliance report to be issued to the SkillsActive Executive Committee for approval and then to the Welsh Language Board Complete 3 year evaluation report and send to the Welsh Language Board. A copy of the annual implementation report will be approved by the Executive Committee and submitted to the Welsh Language Board. A comprehensive evaluation report will be produced in the 3 rd year of implementation. Again, this shall be approved by the Executive Committee and submitted to the Welsh Language Board for approval. September 2008 /N Linked to capacity, and as a result of the re-licensing process the annual compliance report has been submitted later than initially planned. However, next year endeavour to submit the report in a timelier manner (by Sept 2010). By April 2011 N This evaluation report will outline SkillsActive s priorities for the following 3 years Relevant documentation in relation to performance and standards will be Performance and made available to the public through standards to be the SkillsActive web-site. published in the Annual Report and website Welsh and English versions of the Welsh Language Scheme are available /N 22

23 The SkillsActive through the web-site and intranet. Scheme will These can be downloaded by continuously be members of the public and internal publicised by staff. making copies available to any relevant organisation/body, employees or members of the public and on the web site SkillsActive welcomes and records Adopt a complaints procedure to deal with grievances regarding the scheme. any complaints or suggestions for improving the bilingual service to the public. endeavour to respond to any grievances regarding the scheme in an appropriate manner. 23

24 New Targets The following table outlines the work required / emanating from this report, and focuses upon new targets for the coming year along with a timetable for completion: TARGET ACTION (COMMITMENT) TIMESCALE / DEADLINE Target 1 Ensure that references to the Sept 2010 Welsh language Scheme are contained within the new staff handbook, which will be issued to new members of staff across the UK. RESPONSIBILIT Richard Tobutt (National Manager- Wales) FURTHER DETAILS Supported by key personnel within the SkillsActive HR department. Target 2 Continue to brief Welsh based Each quarter to Richard Tobutt Supported by staff in relation to Sept 2010 (National Manager- staff as and when required. implementation on a quarterly Wales) basis at the SkillsActive Team Wales meetings. Target 3 Actively research and react to Sept 2010 Richard Tobutt the Welsh Language skills needs (National Manager- of the sector as part of any Wales) forthcoming research activity. Relevant research will be conducted bilingually, and will include questions on Welsh Muriel Bankhead medium skills needs and demands. (Head of Research) Target 4 ensure that Continuing Richard Tobutt The National Manager (Wales) future Welsh specific (National Manager- will work closely with the documentation is available Wales) internal communications through the Welsh language, and department to ensure that the is downloadable through the Welsh section of the web-site is SkillsActive web-site. kept up to date. Target 5 need to work Sept 2010 Richard Tobutt SkillsActive s National Manager with DCELLS through the new (National Manager- (Wales) will need to work performance management closely with the Group 24

25 process to explore how the Wales) Executive Manager to ensure sector bilingual skills needs can that government requirements be better articulated. are addressed accordingly. Target 6 Should a situation arise where Sept 2010 Richard Tobutt National Manager (Wales) to the office (National Manager- work closely with the relocates, it will consider the Wales) SkillsActive Facilities Manager. impact related to implementing the Welsh Language Scheme. Target 7 When recruiting new staff, Continuing Richard Tobutt Supported by key personnel publicise the fact (National Manager- within the SkillsActive HR that Welsh speakers are Wales) department. welcome to join its workforce. Target 8 endeavour to Sept 2009 Richard Tobutt submit the implementation (National Manager- report in a timelier manner. Wales) Again, this will be approved by the Executive Committee before it is submitted to the Welsh Language Board. 25