North East Launches New Deal to Boost Local Employment Opportunities

The North East of England is set to enhance its employment landscape with the introduction of the New Deal for North East Workers. This initiative aims to address the region’s low pay issues while curbing the trend of young people relocating to cities like London for better job prospects. The strategy is designed to stimulate economic growth and improve opportunities for local residents.

Mayor Kim McGuinness expressed optimism that the new strategy would create sustainable job opportunities, allowing young people to thrive in their home region rather than feeling compelled to move away. “We want young people to know they don’t have to leave the region and go to London for success,” McGuinness stated during a recent meeting of the NECA cabinet. “There are many opportunities right here on their doorstep.”

Addressing Economic Challenges

The North East has been grappling with notable challenges, including high rates of economic inactivity and youth unemployment. Recent data indicates a worrying rise in inactivity attributed to health conditions, compounded by a significant portion of the workforce engaged in low-paid and insecure jobs. A report presented to the NECA cabinet highlighted that many businesses struggle to find skilled local talent, which adversely affects regional growth.

To combat these issues, the New Deal identifies key sectors for growth, including offshore wind, AI, and the creative industries. The plan encompasses initiatives aimed at enhancing skill sets among residents, improving employment rates, and providing essential services such as affordable childcare and better public transport. These measures are intended to dismantle the barriers preventing individuals from entering the workforce.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Goals

The policies outlined in the New Deal were crafted in collaboration with local employers and educational institutions. This initiative aligns with the UK Government’s Get Britain Working agenda, which seeks to stimulate job creation and reduce unemployment across the country.

The cabinet unanimously endorsed the strategy, marking a significant step towards revitalizing the local economy. The initiative is expected to be formally launched in autumn 2024. McGuinness emphasized the importance of creating a thriving job market, stating, “A healthy society relies on people going to work, but far too many people don’t have a job – or don’t have a job they want.”

The New Deal for North East Workers has four key priorities: building a larger, better-skilled, and more diverse workforce; creating clear career pathways for employers; providing targeted support to enhance employment rates; and addressing the obstacles that hinder residents from securing jobs.

With these ambitious goals in place, the North East is positioning itself as a promising landscape for both workers and employers. The initiative could lead to a transformative shift in the region’s economic outlook, fostering an environment where local talent can flourish without the need to migrate for success.