Gedling MP Vernon Coaker given his backing to a charity dedicated to improving the lives of those living in former mining communities.
Mr Coaker showed his support for work being carried out by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust by signing a pledge book presented to MPs at the recent Labour Party Conference.
The Trust supports former coalfield communities such as Gedling and Newstead in a variety of ways – including investing in jobs and skills and providing access to sports and fitness projects.
The pledge, which was signed by the MP for Gedling reads: “I pledge my support to the work of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust in delivering against its objectives to make a lasting and positive impact on the employment, skills and health of residents in former mining towns and villages”,
Each MP was invited to sign their own specially printed page and to give their commitment to the regeneration of the coalfield communities.
Mr Coaker said he hopes that by backing the Trust they can start making a real difference in some of the former coal mining communities in Gedling borough.
He said: “In Gedling, 24% of residents have no skills or qualifications, a worrying fact when you consider the need for professional talents both locally and beyond. This statistic makes it clear that there is still a challenge in our area and that it needs to be addressed. Working alongside organisations like the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and offering my support means that we can make changes that will benefit residents now and for future generations.”
The Coalfields Regeneration Trust also took the chance to launch its Coalfield Investment Fund proposition to Government and ministers during the event where it made the case for a contribution of £30m to be combined with its own investment of £10m to establish the £40m fund. This will be used to develop new industrial space for busineses in former mining areas which will bring an estimated 1,000 jobs to these communities.
The Trust will use any income generated by the sites to support social impact projects in these communities to help create a lasting legacy for the next generation.
Chief Executive of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Gary Ellis said: “Our proposal offers Government a unique opportunity to invest in improving the social wellbeing of the former coalfield communities. It will deliver sustainable returns, providing exceptional indirect benefits including £17 per £1 invested. In addition, this will also result in £90 million of direct benefits from the government’s £30 million contribution.
He added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Vernon Coaker and all other MPs who signed our pledge book. It gives us a renewed focus and confidence that we can and will make a lasting and positive contribution to these communities that should not be forgotten.”
For further details about the ‘ask’ document and the work that the Coalfields Regeneration Trust is involved with please visit www.coalfields-regen.org.uk.
