For long periods, the Scottish economy has grown – but despite this serious inequalities persist. This is also the case across the UK, and indeed across most of the developed world. These inequalities are manifest in a number of ways.
Inequality in earnings and income across individuals and households.
Variable access to employment, with employment rates particularly low for disabled people and those with low or no educational qualifications.
Significant inequalities in the above across different regions within Scotland, and within different neighbourhoods within regions and cities.
We know that economic growth does not solve inequality. It is for this reason that governments over a number of decades have sought mechanisms that will not only grow the economy but also spread growth more equally across the population. Most recently in the Scottish policy context there has been a focus on Inclusive Growth.
This new one-day course on Inclusive Growth is designed for people working in a role which demands a wider understanding of the factors perpetuating inequality and of the interventions that can play a role in reducing these inequalities and improving economic development outcomes. Consideration will be given to Scottish Government policies and economic strategy in relation to inclusive growth. The underlying determinants of inequality will be examined, as well as the reasons why economic growth on its own is insufficient to deal with the problem. Finally, there will be a review of relevant and effective interventions.