North West Equality Conference – Liverpool, 11 November 2009 RELEASING POTENTIAL: Taking Equality Forward within the Regional Strategy Simon Nokes – Executive Director of Policy & Planning, NWDA
RS2010 • What is it? • Progress To Date • Values & Outcomes • Project Plan • Key Strands Emerging • Next Steps • Keeping in touch
Progress to Date (1) • Evidence base, regional forecasting panels, scenario setting and sub regional studies • Principles and Issues paper and consultation report • Thematic Seminars • Sub Regional Priorities • 12 Values and 12 Outcomes
Values • 1. Reduce poverty and inequality by improving social inclusion and the wellbeing of the Northwest • 2. Value the diversity of the Northwest encouraging social mobility by releasing the potential of all • 3. Develop a sense of community and belonging • 9. Consider the needs of both urban and rural areas • 12. Maximise the contribution of the private, public and third sectors to the region
Outcomes: People at its heart with‌. • 6. communities and places which are sustainable and safe, with less deprivation and disadvantage within the region
• 7. a world class skills base, with improved education, which helps to attract and retain talent as well as tackling gaps in basic and graduate level skills
Outcomes: People at its heart with‌. • 8. a healthy population, with reduced health inequalities and which capitalises on the economic opportunities from changing health issues • 9. an improved range and depth of quality employment opportunities for all. There will be links between areas of opportunity and need, with reduced employment rates and an improved supply of labour to businesses.
Progress to Date (2) • Sustainability Appraisal • Equality Impact Assessment of Principles & Issues • Peer Review • Project Plan
Project Plan • Part 1 - including high level strategic framework and implementation framework - until December 2009 • Informal consultation early 2010 – incl. with NW EDG on 20 January 2010 • Part 2 - development including detailed spatial and thematic policies to deliver Part 1 - during 2010 • Both parts subject to full consultation • Examination in Public
Key strands emerging in Part 1 • Addressing challenges and opportunities presented by climate change • Building on sources of international competitive advantage and regional distinctiveness • Releasing the potential of our people • Ensuring we have the right housing and infrastructure for sustainable growth
Releasing the Potential of Our People • Tackling social exclusion and deprivation, ill health & inequality • Addressing the implications of demographic change • Linking opportunity and need to improve employment opportunities and skills • Encouraging social enterprise • Regenerating areas and building strong communities
Next Steps • Identify potential actions and options for inclusion in Part 1 • Work led by NWDA and 4NW with support from – RS2010 Project Team – Regional Intelligence Unit – Sustainability Appraisal Team – Specific expertise e.g. from Third Sector • Role of RS2010 Advisory Group • How you can be involved
Keeping in touch and up to date Our website is http://www.nwregionalstrategy.com/ – Informal comments forum – Details of future consultation events – Sign up to newsletter Our primary contact point is information@nwregionalstrategy.com