12,000 jobs to be created in North East health and life sciences sectors

A new strategy aiming to double the number of North East jobs in the health and life sciences sectors has been unveiled.

The North East Health, Life Sciences and Medicines Manufacturing Strategy has been developed by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) working in partnership with the NHS, businesses, universities and industry leaders to create 12,000 new jobs in the health, life sciences and pharmaceuticals sectors.

As well as aiming to double the number of jobs in the sector from 12,000 to 24,000 by 2030, the strategy aims to double the number of businesses active in the North East health and life sciences community from 150 to 300.

Lucy Winskell OBE, chair of the North East LEP, explained: “At a time when the world is facing challenges brought by an ageing population, and grappling with the consequences of COVID-19, the North East has the potential to become a leader in developing treatments which can improve quality of life the world over, while stimulating economic growth in our region.”

Professor Michael Whitaker FRSA FRSB FMBA FMedSci, chair of Health and Life Sciences Group, commented: “We have a fantastic innovation ecosystem supported by an incredible translational environment where healthcare technologies and medicines are being constantly developed.

“Forward thinking leadership here in the North East is helping to drive forward global health services and markets – something of which we should all be very proud.”

Professor Chris Day, vice chancellor at Newcastle University and chair of the Office for Strategic Co-ordination of Health Research, added: “The North East is home to international academic research expertise in health and life sciences which not only provides competitive advantage but creates significant regional benefits.

“Our growing reputation as a testbed and living lab is enabling us to accelerate innovation as well as attract investment and skills.”