Backing Our Coalfield Communities: Why I Called on the Government to Support the CRT

On Tuesday, I had the privilege of leading a debate in the House of Commons calling on the Government to back the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) with a new wave of funding to help transform lives in former mining communities across our country.

A Proven Model for Change

The CRT was established by the last Labour Government in 1999 to deliver economic, social, and health improvements in places like Newcastle-under-Lyme that bore the brunt of deindustrialisation. Twenty-five years on, it’s still delivering for our communities — often against the odds.

The CRT has:

• Supported 1.3 million people to improve their skills

• Helped over 26,000 people into work

• Created or safeguarded nearly 3,500 jobs

• Built an asset base worth £55.5 million

• Delivered £7.50 in economic value for every £1 invested

These are not just numbers. They represent real change in people’s lives — from employment opportunities and local training programmes to grassroots health and wellbeing projects.

Why I Raised This in Parliament

In Newcastle-under-Lyme, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of CRT support. Charities like Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre benefit from CRT membership, and through new projects like CRT Game On, we’re on track to introduce free weekly football sessions for 11–18 year-olds in Knutton — all made possible by CRT investment.

But there’s so much more that could be done. CRT Engage, which offers tailored health and employment support, isn’t currently available in Newcastle-under-Lyme due to funding constraints. That needs to change.

That’s why I asked the Government to commit to a new £50 million capital investment over five years — a move that would support 1,000 new jobs, create 500,000 square feet of SME growth space, and unlock long-term, sustainable funding.

Investing in Our Shared Future

This isn’t just about helping coalfield communities catch up — it’s about leading the way. CRT’s approach aligns perfectly with this Government’s goals: to improve health, skills, and job opportunities while giving people a genuine say in shaping their future.

As I said in the Chamber:

“This is exactly what Labour governments are for. The CRT is in our DNA — it’s about doing things with communities, not to them, and backing people to shape their own future.”

I was pleased to hear the Minister confirm that he will meet with the CRT soon, and I hope that leads to firm commitments in the months ahead.

What's Next?

I’ll keep working in Parliament and with partners on the ground to make sure communities like ours are not overlooked — but championed. The CRT is a success story waiting to be scaled, and with the right backing, it can help lead the regeneration our communities deserve.

If you want to learn more about the CRT, visit www.coalfields-regen.org.uk