This week, the Labour Government has announced the biggest employment reforms in a generation, backed by £240 million of new funding to invest in new ways of helping people into work.

As part of the Get Britain Working White Paper, the Government has announced £125 million in funding to eight areas across England and Wales, including the North East, to combat economic inactivity and mobilise local work, health, and skills support.

After 14 years of Conservative mismanagement and sticking plaster solutions, the North East has seen growing numbers of people falling out of work due to ill health as well as a lack of opportunities for young people.

The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will benefit from extra capacity to reduce waiting lists. The Government will work in close partnership with the North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, and local authorities to meet the unique needs of the region and tackle the root causes of unemployment and economic inactivity.

Alongside these plans, the Government will expand mental health support and has committed to a Youth Guarantee, ensuring every young person has access to an apprenticeship, quality training and education opportunities.

Catherine welcomed the announcement on BBC Politics Live today:

Responding to the announcement on BBC Politics Live, Catherine has commented:

“We have a Chancellor for the first time that has put the economy on a stable footing and is really determined to make the long-term decisions. One in eight young people aged 18 to 21 are not in work or training, and so we’re absolutely determined not to abandon young people to what can be a really stifling period in your life – it should be a springboard to the future.”

Catherine added:

“I am delighted that the North East has been chosen as a trailblazer region in combating economic inactivity and getting people back into work; ensuring that everyone across the region can benefit from the dignity and purpose work can bring.”