Levelling Up in the UK

The UK can be described as an unparalleled success story, a multi-cultural, multi-national, multi-ethnic state. A NHS which guarantees care for every citizen; charities and voluntary groups. Regardless of the successes, there are some shortcomings within the UK economy which can be addressed. The driving force behind this proposed change is a Government scheme labelled ‘Levelling Up’. The phrase, ‘Levelling Up’ refers to the UK Government’s ambition to reduce regional disparities in terms of economy by targeting regions which lack government funding.

Levelling Up requires the Government to reduce the geographical inequality which is a striking feature of the UK. The proposed results from this investment scheme will help to; improve productivity, boost economic growth, encourage innovation, and improve education and skills.

One of the benefits from the inflow of Government investment into less-economically developed regions of the United Kingdom is that there are opportunities created for domestic and foreign investors. New investors can benefit from not only the agglomeration effect of new infrastructure that is developed but also a larger pool of skilled workers with diverse skill sets. An example of this can be seen in the development of the UK’s Freeports.

• The creation and development of eight Innovative Freeports is bringing jobs, investment and prosperity across England with a commitment to deliver more Freeports in each of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. One institution making use of the Government funding can be seen in the North-West of England with the Liverpool City Region Freeport’s Freeport Skills Academy. The Academy aims to help unemployed people and care-leavers secure jobs within the industry whilst receiving the necessary training and education.