BUSINESS leaders have been discussing what they can do to tackle the region's skills shortages.
Business in the Community's regional leadership team, led by Northumbrian Water managing director John Cuthbert, met to discuss how they could contribute to education and raise achievement among young people.
Mr Cuthbert said: "By engaging with schools to build employability skills, industry can help ensure young people are more equipped and ready for work.
"This will ultimately provide the quality of workforce needed and I would encourage other businesses to follow our example, commit to their community and make a difference."
Business in the Community (BITC) has developed an education programme called Back to Business.
It links businesses with schools and there are now 19 partnerships working across the region from Derwentside to Teesside.
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