A leading business group in the North East has urged the Government to improve health levels in the region as part of efforts to help the economic recovery.
The North East England Chamber of Commerce has written to Health Secretary Matt Hancock to say that better levels of public health could help the region increase productivity and reduce long term unemployment.
The North East has higher levels of ill health and economic activity than most other parts of the country, and a 2018 study drew a link between the region’s health issues and its economic struggles.
The Chamber has also called on the Government to tackle problems of mental health, which have become more pronounced for many during the pandemic.
In his letter, Chamber chief executive James Ramsbotham said: “Increasing the proportion of people in good health in the Northern Powerhouse by 3.5% would reduce the employment gap between the Northern Powerhouse and the rest of England by 10%.
“The Royal College of Physicians have highlighted that adverse trends in poverty, education, employment, mental health and loneliness have clearly been exacerbated over the pandemic, particularly in the North.
“Areas with higher levels of deprivation, poor quality housing, older population demographics and a higher BAME population have all been hit hardest by Covid. Pupils in these areas have had their education disrupted and will need extra support.”
In 2018, a study by Newcastle University and the Northern Health Science Alliance found that more than £13bn could be added to the economy of the North by tackling the health inequalities that exist with other parts of the country.
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The rate of economic activity in the North East is well above the national average, and more than a quarter of people unable to work are economically inactive due to long term sickness, again above national rates.
Mr Ramsbotham added: “We acknowledge there are deep structural issues within the North East which will not be easily solved. In our work, we are encouraging businesses to play their role in improving our regional health by looking at wellbeing strategies as part of new approaches to flexible working and agreeing hours with employees as part of a good work-life balance.
“Health is key to improving quality of life and productivity in our region. The pandemic has highlighted how poverty, housing and employment outcomes are all related to health. We need to see a focus on improving health as part of the Government’s ‘build back better’ strategy.”
The Department of Health has been contacted for comment.
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