A new independent policy centre has been launched to give the UK’s vast network of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in manufacturing and engineering a unified and influential voice in the corridors of power. More than 325,000 SMEs in the engineering and manufacturing sectors — many of them supply chain businesses — form the backbone of the UK economy, driving innovation, job creation and growth. Yet their experiences and insights have too often been overlooked in national policy discussions.
The Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs, powered by
Enginuity — the former Sector Skills Council — has been created to change that. Acting as a convener of industry leaders, sector bodies, policymakers and Government, it aims to ensure that the realities facing British SMEs are not just heard but drive meaningful change at the very highest level.
The Centre’s mission is to engage SMEs directly, to unify and amplify their voices as an independent arbiter that brings together industry, sector networks, policy organisations and Government to collaborate on the skills and policy priorities that underpin growth and support a thriving, resilient supply chain.
Ann Watson (pictured), CEO of Enginuity, said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy yet often fail to be heard by those making policy in key areas at the heart of Government — and those honing policy need to listen. Effective Government policy depends on meaningful engagement with the people and organisations whose insights and experience are essential to its success. SMEs are huge in number but that can mean they are difficult to identify and engage, and their individual voices lack unification, amplification and clarity. This is where Enginuity’s Policy Centre can really come into its own, creating the epicentre between SMEs, Government and others, ensuring that positive and productive engagement and dialogue takes place.”
Thriving industrial baseThe Policy Centre will work as a constructive ally and critical friend to the UK Government, supporting efforts to future-proof British manufacturing and engineering. By advocating for policies and skills development that reflect the real-world needs of SMEs, the Centre aims to help create a thriving, resilient industrial base that underpins the UK’s growth ambitions.
Through advocacy, campaigns and direct engagement, SMEs will have new opportunities to influence decision-makers and see their input translated into tangible outcomes. The Centre will also provide clear guidance to help businesses navigate policy changes and contribute to evidence-led dialogue.
Ms Watson added: “By gathering robust data, conducting research and fostering honest dialogue, the Policy Centre will provide evidence-based recommendations to shape policies that strengthen SMEs and reinforce the UK supply chain. We are here to do what is right for SMEs and the supply chain — giving them a platform and the influence they deserve. Our approach is collaborative and impact-driven. We believe that by bringing together industry, sector networks, membership organisations and large employers, we can align priorities, amplify influence and tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges together.”
Mike Reader, Labour MP for Northampton South, said: “Congratulations to Enginuity for setting up the Policy Centre — it is a big step forward, and I am proud to be part of that journey with you. I am so pleased to see the Policy Centre being launched to give SMEs a voice in how we develop the skills agenda and opportunities within our industry. Quite often SMEs do not have that seat at the top table; the Policy Centre is going to provide that route to engage with Government and make sure that the policies and outcomes delivered meet the broad SME needs.”
Skills and supply-chain challengesViki Bell, chief executive of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), said: “The Policy Centre offers a welcome focus on the real pressures facing smaller manufacturers. Skills and supply-chain challenges continue to affect many of our members, and having a clearer evidence base helps move the national conversation in a more practical direction. The construction equipment sector relies on a skilled and resilient supply chain, and this launch is a positive step towards ensuring SME experience is properly reflected in policy.”
Andrea Wilson, managing director of Hone-All Precision Ltd, said: “For over 30 years, the needs of UK manufacturing SMEs have not been heard by government and as a result, we have a skills system that does not serve us, a support system that does not sustain us, and a regulatory environment that stifles our potential. SMEs represent over 99% of all UK manufacturing companies. We are the backbone of British industry and the lifeblood of the economy. We need a voice shouting for what we need. More than that, we deserve a voice willing to challenge what was, create what can be, and really drive positive change for us, our people and our businesses.”
Policymakers, partners and businesses interested in supporting SMEs and the supply chain are encouraged to contact the Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs. For more information visit the website
here.