The Colleges 'Community Dividend'
"Some £3.8 million a year is saved in social costs thanks to the Colleges in the Black Country".
As established FE colleges for 14 to 18-year-olds, and adults from 19 and upwards, the Colleges in the Black Country have a vital part to play in increasing skill levels and creating opportunities among the diverse communities in which we operate.
But the positive impact of our activities go beyond qualifications. As providers of jobs, purchasers of goods and services and partners with local businesses, we have a dynamic impact on the regional economy.
We also work with numerous community, voluntary and other organisations to help address a wide range of issues such as skills deprivation and job creation.
Research shows that where there are strong educational centres, this filters out into the local area with people enjoying better health, improved lifestyles and reduced crime levels.
These 'social savings' are realised in the form of such benefits as reduced smoking, lower obesity levels, improved mental health, a lower probability of committing criminal offences and a smaller number of people on Job Seeker's Allowance.
Economic modelling estimates that the 2006-07 learner population of the Colleges in the Black Country will generate significant 'social savings', including nearly £3 million of savings in health services, nearly £800,000 in law enforcement and around £85,000 in income assistance.
