Carlisle Voices Cumbria’s Economic Strategy to 2045 sets out an ambition for “a modern and entrepreneurial economy where world-leading sector strengths and an outstanding natural environment drive shared prosperity for all people and places”. A significant constraint to achieving an increasingly prosperous Cumbria relates to the size and shape of our current and future workforce, especially in respect of our workforce numbers, skills types and the proportion of high-level skills. There are multiple approaches to increase the workforce size and skill level from supporting more of our young people to enter employment, education and training, as well as those that are economically inactive due to poor health or caring responsibilities, through to attracting more people to come to study and work. The provision of apprenticeships across our county is a key driver to equip new and existing members of the workforce with the skills for our economy to thrive, from level 2 all the way up to postgraduate level 7. In 2025 it is pleasing to see education and training providers across Cumbria expanding their offer. This includes apprenticeships for those already in the workforce to advance their career and gain a degree, in areas such as Project Management, Nursing, Youth Work, Teaching, Paramedic Science, Forestry and Advanced Clinical Practice and to degree level. The opportunities for our young people, and those in the workforce, are many, whether studying in colleges, on campuses or in the workplace. One of our key challenges is to ensure they are supported and signposted to access and realise them. Professor Julie Mennell DL, Vice Chancellor, University of Cumbria Our vision at Carlisle Youth Zone (CYZ) is ‘for young people to feel seen, valued and heard’. A vision we know many others share with us, and indeed many are already backing. The vision purposely places young people as the judges of its delivery – it is they who need to feel the vision in action, anchored in our understanding that young people have a Caroline Taylor-Beswick, Chief Executive, Carlisle Youth Zone distinct perspective and insight into how this will be (or could be) experienced by them. It is also anchored in our understanding that ‘youth is an actual life stage’; not one to be rushed or simply transitioned through. But one to be respected, harnessed, supported and fulfilled in and of its own right. Carlisle has a proud history of recognising this, standing strongly together to ensure young people have a range of opportunities to realise their passions and their purpose, alongside access to support in spaces and places which are right for them, especially in times of challenge. As we look forward, there are significant challenges ahead; some new, some shifting, some ongoing. And, there are significant opportunities too; many built on the strong foundations we have worked hard to establish, and others ready to be newly harnessed. We look forward to playing our part in responding. I grew up in a rural community that was hardworking; passionate about the landscape; compassionate towards their neighbours with a community spirit full of fun; an active, supportive and safe environment for growing families. Today, rural and agricultural communities in Cumbria are at a crossroads, facing numerous challenges that threaten their sustainability and wellbeing, including changes in government agricultural policies Julie Wannop, Co-owner and Managing Director, Eden Golf Club and inheritance tax for farmers, mental health concerns, rising suicide rates, and increased cost of living. Our rural communities are home to a growing population of older people who are experiencing poverty and loneliness. The cost of living, including housing and transportation, is disproportionately high compared to income levels for many people, causing hardship or forcing people to move away. The countryside lacks diverse job opportunities, leading to economic instability and reliance on low-paying agricultural jobs. The pressures of running a rural business include financial uncertainty, market fluctuations, and the demands of maintaining a family can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent proud individuals from seeking help, while rural isolation can make it difficult to access support services. I find it heart breaking to see the demise of our remote and beautiful rural spirit and communities. Carlisle: Opportunities & Challenges 2025 8 9
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