The Local Development Companies Network (LDCN) works to ensure that employment supports delivered at local level are informed by frontline experience and aligned with national priorities. We engage closely with the Department of Social Protection (DSP), the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), and other key stakeholders to ensure that programmes are targeted, evidence-based, and responsive to the challenges and opportunities facing local jobseekers.
Employment is a recurring theme in LDCN’s Social Inclusion Oversight Forum and Rural Development Oversight Forum, where emerging issues such as access, digital literacy, long-term unemployment, and quality of work are discussed in depth with policymakers and external experts. LDCN also facilitates peer learning through the Education and Employment Community of Practice, where staff from across the country share insights, tools and practice improvements.
Strategic direction is agreed by LDCN’s National Council, ensuring local practice is consistently fed back into national systems.
Local Development Companies (LDCs) provide a wide range of person-centred employment supports tailored to the unique needs of individuals. Their services include one-to-one career guidance, CV preparation, and interview coaching, as well as group-based job readiness training. They offer work placements that help individuals build skills and confidence, along with wraparound supports such as advice on childcare, assistance with transport, and referrals to relevant services. LDCs also create targeted pathways to employment for specific groups, including lone parents, Travellers, early school leavers, and people with disabilities. In addition, many LDCs collaborate directly with employers to connect jobseekers with real employment opportunities, acting as a vital bridge between local talent and labour market demand.
Local Development Companies (LDCs) provide a wide range of person-centred employment supports tailored to the unique needs of individuals. Their services include one-to-one career guidance, CV preparation, and interview coaching, as well as group-based job readiness training. They offer work placements that help individuals build skills and confidence, along with wraparound supports such as advice on childcare, assistance with transport, and referrals to relevant services. LDCs also create targeted pathways to employment for specific groups, including lone parents, Travellers, early school leavers, and people with disabilities. In addition, many LDCs collaborate directly with employers to connect jobseekers with real employment opportunities, acting as a vital bridge between local talent and labour market demand.
Access to meaningful work is one of the most powerful ways to combat poverty and promote equality. LDCs ensure that employment supports are relevant, person-centred and community-driven. Through LDCN, the insights gathered from this work shape stronger national systems — ensuring that no one is left behind in the labour market.