Employment and Economic Growth JSNA

Nationally

1. Kickstart Scheme: This UK-wide initiative provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit. It aims to reduce youth unemployment by offering valuable work experience 
2. National Living Wage: The government has increased the National Living Wage, which helps improve earnings for low-paid workers, including those in Hartlepool.
3. Equality Act 2010: This legislation aims to reduce discrimination in the workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all, including women, ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities.

Regionally

1. Tees Valley Combined Authority: This authority focuses on economic development across the Tees Valley region, including Hartlepool. It delivers local initiatives through the governments Shared Prosperity Fund which provides a range of support programmes to local businesses.
2. The Better Health at Work Award recognises the efforts of employers in the North East and Cumbria in addressing health issues within the workplace.  The award scheme is FREE, flexible and open to all employers in participating local authority areas, regardless of size, location or type of business.
3. The emerging growth plan for Tees Valley is a 10-year strategy led by the Tees Valley Combined Authority to drive inclusive economic growth through five priorities: advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation, digital and creative industries, foundational economy support, regeneration, and skills development. It aligns with national sector priorities such as clean energy, life sciences, and digital technologies, aiming to establish Tees Valley as a net-zero industrial cluster by 2040 while fostering innovation and job creation. Building on the region’s strong investment track record, the plan seeks to attract new businesses, boost productivity, and ensure sustainable, long-term prosperity.

Locally

1. Hartlepool Inclusive Growth Strategy: This strategy focuses on developing people, businesses, and places in Hartlepool. It includes initiatives to support business growth, improve skills, and enhance the local economy.
2. Capital Projects: Capital Projects such as the Screen Industries Production Village and Town Deal Projects aim to create jobs and attract new businesses and visitors to the area. A Health and Social Care Skills Academy and Civil Engineering Academy have recently opened providing opportunities for local residents to get the skills and qualifications needed for successful careers in the area.