Please note that this course is now full. For any enquiries please contact Alison Jones.

We know that economic growth does not reduce 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 greater focus on building an Inclusive Economy. Within this, there has also been a growing emphasis on the need to improve Wellbeing, challenging the traditional emphasis on economic growth. we will explore these issues by considering the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET).

Now the need to respond to the Climate Emergency by driving towards net zero carbon and achieving greater climate resilience has become centre stage. This creates both challenges to and opportunities for developing the Scottish economy, but also  reducing inequalities. In relation to the latter, The Scottish Government is now pursuing a Just Transition as we confront the Climate Emergency.

This 6-hour CPD course deals with both the growing strategic focus on a Wellbeing Economy and the drive to achieve a Just Transition whilst tackling the Climate Emergency. It 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. 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. There will be a review of relevant and effective interventions, and the potential contribution of key Scottish approaches such as Fair Work, Community Wealth Building and Sustainable Procurement.

The course will be facilitated by Alan McGregor who is Professor of Economic Development in the Adam Smith Business School at the University of Glasgow. He has worked on policy and practice issues for many years with clients including the Scottish and UK governments, and the European Commission, as well as many agencies including Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland. In the last 2 years he has advised and researched on employment and skills issues associated with Covid recovery, Brexit, and Climate Emergency.