Resource Library

Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, organisations across the North East have an opportunity to reflect on how inclusive practices can drive stronger, more resilient businesses. With more than 16 million disabled people in the UK, disability inclusion is not a niche concern but a core part of building a modern, competitive workforce and customer base.

John McCabe, Chief Executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, said:

The North East Chamber of Commerce has submitted its priorities ahead of the UK Autumn Budget, calling for practical, high-impact measures to unlock economic growth and job creation across the region.

More than 200 senior business leaders from across the region gathered at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light last week for the latest 1815 Lunch, hosted by the North East Chamber of Commerce.

National Fitness Day is a celebration of movement, wellbeing and the positive impact of sport on people’s lives. In the North East, the influence of sport extends well beyond the playing field but it is a powerful economic driver, a source of regional pride and a catalyst for healthier, more connected communities.

Ahead of our September newsletter, we caught up with Stuart Jones, Managing Director at First Rail Open Access, the operator of Chamber Partner members, Lumo.

The Chamber’s latest column for The Journal by Chris Kelsey, public affairs manager

Responding to the launch of the government’s new Small Business Plan, Jennifer Rycroft, executive director of membership and international trade at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said:

Jessie Kelly Baxter, Senior Policy Advisor at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said:

By Jessie KellyBaxter, senior policy advisor

The Chamber’s latest column for The Journal by Deborah Walton, president of the North East Chamber of Commerce and CFO at Palintest

The North East has long been a region defined by innovation, resilience, and a strong sense of identity. Increasingly, it’s the creative industries that are helping to shape that identity – not just culturally, but economically.

Today is World Health Day – a moment to reflect on how we can create healthier communities, workplaces and economies. For businesses across the North East, it’s a timely reminder of the vital role that employee wellbeing plays in long-term success.

The way organisations attract, evaluate, and hire talent significantly impacts their long-term success. The recent Building an Inclusive Recruitment Process workshop, led by Sam Spoors, Founder and MD of Talentheads, highlighted key strategies to make hiring more equitable, diverse, and effective. This article summarises key takeaways and provides actionable insights for businesses looking to refine their recruitment practices.

Marianne O’Sullivan, policy manager at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said:

The Chamber’s latest column for The Journal by Marianne O’Sullivan, policy manager

Sam Spoors, Founder and MD at Talentheads, explores how embedding company values into your business strategy can be the ultimate competitive advantage, helping you attract and retain top talent in today’s job market.

A new report highlighting the key skills needs for the North East has been released by the Chamber.

Senior business leaders from across the region gathered at the latest Chamber 1815 Lunch to hear from guest speaker Sinead Rocks, managing director of nations and regions at Channel 4.  

A spokesperson from the Chamber said: