How do you solve a problem like Merthyr Tydfil?

“How do you solve a problem like Merthyr Tydfil?” was the question asked by Ciaran Jenkins on Channel 4 news on 11th April.  One of the Channel’s jobs reports, the item asked what it would take for the borough’s record high level of people on benefits to reach the UK average.  According the Sheffield Hallam academics, the answer is about 3,000 jobs.  Ciaran Jenkins highlighted the many factories that have closed their doors over the years, and also indicated the number of new developments such as the retail park and leisure village.

Bevan Foundation Director Victoria Winckler was more optimistic than many of the others featured in the report.  She pointed out that despite the sobering statistics, there were plenty of people with good jobs and lots of people with skills. The challenge was getting employers to recognise that people in the area are not idle, and encouraging development. In an article reflecting on the Channel 4 report, Victoria pointed out that the numbers of jobs required could be generated provided that there was a generally favourable economic climate coupled with public investment.