Mayor supports new anti-poverty unit

The Inclusive Growth Unit (IGU) has been formed by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

Its objective is to ensure that decisions taken tackle issues like poverty and unemployment.

It will help to make inclusive growth “hard-wired” into WMCA investment, economic growth and industrial strategy.

The WMCA cabinet member in charge of this initiative is Steve Eling, the leader of Sandwell Council.

Cllr Eling said: ” This is a really innovative development being pioneered by the WMCA that will help to bring lasting benefits to our communities.

The Mayor of the West Midlands is also enthusiastic in his support for the Unit.

Andy Street said: ” We want to ensure that the West Midlands renaissance extends to all of its residents. Despite the regions rapid growth, we know that many of its communities have not yet seen the benefits  – unemployment remains higher than the national average, and evidence suggests that around 25% of children grow up with experience of poverty. This has to change, which is why this innovative partnership has been established. It will help WMCA respond to the economic opportunities open to the West Midlands with policies that generate more and better jobs for local people.”

To make this work, the Unit will engage with a wide range of local partners.

These include Public Health England, local charities, the regions councils, other organisations and the Midlands Growth Company.

The chief executive of Public Health England, Duncan Selbie, said: ” Public Health England is delighted to support this pioneering move to establish an inclusive Growth Unit within the WMCA.  Our approach is founded on the simple truth that health is wealth. Improving health outcomes and raising productivity are two sides of the same coin. We wan to work with Mayor Street, councils and public service partners across the West Midlands to focus on the population interventions that can best deliver inclusive growth.”