The work of the esp is underpinned by three key principles:
(1) Employer Engagement
Engaging employers is crucial to our success. Our partners want to offer a simple, intelligent, and accessible service to all businesses in the region; to do this, we must create an environment where customers are referred to the most appropriate source of information, support, or advice, regardless of the initial point of contact.
(2) Priority Sectors
The esp needs to target its resources effectively, and thus have identified the priority sectors in terms of employment, skills, and productivity in the region (see 'Prioritising for Impact').
A sector approach will be used sensitively, so as not to exclude successful and growing businesses in any sector. These sectors will be reviewed at regular intervals, to take account of labour market changes.
(3) Diversity and Equality
The esp is committed to enabling all learners, businesses (including social enterprises), and communities to benefit from publicly-funded provision. Everyone, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic, can expect to learn in an environment that is free from discrimination. Realising the potential of the region's diverse communities is a key challenge for all partners, and a statutory obligation for organisations that are accountable to the esp.