Work

Vital issues

Worklessness is a problem across the region. It is most readily identifiable in urban areas from Redcar to South East Northumberland, but it can also be concentrated at neighbourhood level in market towns or found as individual cases dotted around the countryside. Minority communities (e.g. ethnic minorities, the disabled) are disproportionately affected. Philanthropically funded activity could help by adding value to public services.

Young people at risk of exclusion from employment as a result of disengagement from education and training can often be successfully reconnected to work opportunities through youth work. Public funding for this is diminishing, so charitable support is essential to be able to provide work funds and work grants.

Supporting individuals and families in low-paid work is crucial as nearly a third of those finding employment remain in poverty. This is often provided by community and voluntary groups as a side benefit of social, sport and play activities, but can also include more direct support such as foodbanks.

The challenge

The challenge of getting people back into work in the region is significant. We had the highest unemployment rate in the UK in July 2017, and the level of young people not in employment, education or training was the second highest in the country by a narrow margin. Self-employment rates are also among the lowest in the UK. Meanwhile, the average weekly wage in the North East is well below the national average, so for poorer people work is not necessarily a route out of poverty.