Northumberland launches collaborative network in Berwick to boost jobs, skills and wellbeing
North Northumberland is set to benefit from a new partnership bringing together employment, health, skills and business support under one collaborative approach.
The Work Smart Live Well Berwick Network, has officially launched yesterday (1 July ). The network provides a collaborative platform for organisations including employability services, training providers, education, health and wellbeing support organisations, and employers.
Through meetings, events, digital channels and a dedicated website, members will be able to share intelligence, access funding and policy updates, shape local provision, and develop new partnerships to further strengthen the support to north Northumberland residents.
The Work Smart Live Well Network, delivered by Northumberland County Council in partnership with Thriving Together, provides an integrated, strategic, response focused on the local area. It connects employability, education, health, skills and employer engagement to better support residents and businesses in Berwick and the surrounding area.
Work Smart Live Well Berwick will also make it easier for residents to access the support they need to move into and progress into work while improving their overall wellbeing.
By bringing together employment, education skills, health, and employer support under one roof, residents will benefit from more coordinated and personalised support. This will help to reduce barriers, improve access to opportunities, and create clearer pathways into sustainable jobs.
The network aims to support healthier lives, stronger career prospects and more inclusive economic growth across the area.
Cllr Richard Wearmouth, Deputy Leader of Northumberland County Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “We all know Berwick is a town on the up helped by a series of investments by NCC and others. Today’s launch marks another important step forward for the town and has been designed in response to requests from local residents and organisations.
“As national and regional priorities evolve, it’s essential that we take a more joined-up and strategic approach to supporting residents into work, while improving health and wellbeing outcomes.
“We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with partners in North Northumberland through this new network and are excited about what we can achieve together in the years ahead.”
He added: “This creates new opportunities for collaboration across sectors and we look forward to working closely with organisations and employers to shape a more integrated and responsive system for North Northumberland’s future.
“This new service ensures the council can fulfil its statutory responsibilities while continuing to play a central leadership role in shaping local infrastructure to meet our residents and business’s needs.”
Nicola Duffy, Programme Manager for Thriving Together said: “Organisations interested in joining the Work Smart Live Well Berwick Network are encouraged to register their interest and be part of North Northumberland’s next chapter in inclusive economic growth by visiting our website”.