In a powerful address to Parliament, Paulette Hamilton MP highlighted the transformative work of the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board (NBER) in tackling deprivation, unemployment, and skills shortages in one of the UK’s most challenged regions. 

Formed in 2020 in response to the economic fallout of the COVID pandemic, the NBER has become a beacon of hope for communities in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott. With an unemployment rate twice the national average and functional literacy levels among the lowest in England, the board has taken decisive action to break down barriers and create opportunities for thousands of residents.

Under Paulette’s leadership as Chair, the NBER has brought together 25 organisations, including local authorities, businesses, and community groups, to deliver skills training, employment support, and economic growth. To date, the board has secured over £15 million in investment, supported 8,000 residents, and helped over 1,000 people into work. Initiatives like bespoke apprenticeships with companies like Halfords and recruitment drives with major employers such as Amazon have been game-changers for the community.

In her speech, Paulette emphasised the importance of personalised, place-based approaches to tackling national challenges like the UK’s skills shortage. She urged the Government to learn from the NBER’s success and adopt similar models to empower communities across the country.

Paulette said, “Helping people flourish in the world of work is not just an economic necessity – it is a moral imperative,

 “The work we are doing in Erdington and North Birmingham is a testament to the power of community, of people working together, determined to make a difference.” 

This inspiring story of resilience and progress is a reminder that when communities come together, they can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Read the article from Parliament News below.

Watch the full speech on the YouTube link above.