(Image: Supplied)
A new programme aimed at helping manufacturers create more inclusive workplaces is set to support businesses across the North East's automotive sector with bespoke training and expert guidance.
Developed through a collaboration between the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), Ingeus, and the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority (North East MSA), the scheme expands on the existing InclusionWorks service, which offers free advice to employers on building more equitable workplaces.
Paul Butler, chief executive of the NEAA, said: "The automotive sector is facing significant workforce challenges, from attracting new talent into the industry to retaining experienced employees and creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.
"Through our EDI Working Group, members highlighted a need for practical, sector-relevant support, and we're delighted to be working with Ingeus and the North East MSA to develop a programme tailored specifically to the needs of our automotive businesses.
"This is a fantastic example of partners working together to ensure existing support is aligned to industry needs and delivers maximum value for employers across the region."
Funded through the Government’s Get Britain Working strategy and championed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, InclusionWorks aims to help businesses unlock untapped talent by improving workplace inclusivity.
Stephen Ward, project manager for InclusionWorks at Ingeus, said: "Ingeus has delivered employment services in the North East for over 20 years and we understand the value that diverse talent brings to organisations and communities.
"InclusionWorks reflects our commitment to helping local employers create workplaces where everyone can thrive.
"By supporting businesses to recruit inclusively, retain skilled employees and build cultures of belonging, we're helping to strengthen workforces, improve productivity and create opportunities for more people across the North East."
Discussions within the NEAA’s equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) working group revealed a need for a customised programme addressing recruitment, skills gaps, and workforce challenges specific to the automotive and manufacturing supply chain.
The result is a seven-part learning series running from September to November 2026, designed to give employers practical tools and insights to attract, support and retain employees from all backgrounds.
Topics will include inclusive leadership, neurodiversity, recruitment practices, disability inclusion, workplace adjustments, wellbeing and mental health, menopause, age inclusion, belonging and workplace culture.
The sessions focus on actionable steps employers can implement immediately to improve workplace culture and boost recruitment, retention and engagement.
Mike Herbert, inclusion champion at the North East MSA, said: "Through InclusionWorks, businesses across the North East can already access free support to become more inclusive and equitable employers.
"What makes this programme particularly exciting is the opportunity to deliver a structured series of workshops for the automotive sector rather than ad-hoc sessions.
"By working closely with the NEAA and its members, we've developed a learning programme that addresses the real-world workforce challenges employers are facing today.
"Our aim is to provide practical knowledge, tools and confidence that organisations can use to create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed."
Mr Herbert will lead the delivery of the programme.
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NEAA members, HR professionals and EDI specialists are encouraged to take part and share the opportunity within their organisations.
The programme is free to attend and highlights the value of collaboration between industry and regional partners in building a more inclusive and resilient future workforce.
By offering tailored support at no cost, the scheme demonstrates how targeted interventions can empower manufacturers to create work environments where all employees have the opportunity to thrive.