The goal of this project is to build system capacity, enhance integrated planning processes, and increase the depth of communication between Literacy (LBS) Support Agencies and Local Training and Adjustment Boards within the Employment Ontario system. This project proposes a two-phased approach to building cooperation between the employment and the training sectors for a more cohesive and integrated Employment Ontario system.

In phase one, a comprehensive environmental scan of service planning in both the employment and the training sectors will be developed. This will identify the current planning and referral processes of each sector, and ascertain where there are best practice models and areas for improvement. This comprehensive research will inform phase two of the project, whereby the two sectors will be brought together in a forum model to learn more about each sector and jointly develop consistent models for planning and referral services, while responding to the particular regional needs.

Literacy Networks and Local Training Boards both engage in planning processes within their geographic regions. Literacy Networks focus on the effective coordination of literacy services to meet the current needs of the community, including labour market demands using information from Local Training Boards. Local Training Boards focus on examining the wide range of needs for labour market development and training across various sectors. Currently Local Boards are piloting new Labour Market Indicators to enhance their planning process. This project seeks to align planning processes and exchange best practices in order to benefit the labour market in Ontario.