Connect Communications has launched ‘Devo Connect’ ahead of November’s Spending Review and Autumn Statement which is expected to represent a step change in moves towards devolution across England, including the Northern Powerhouse.
Connect seeks to capitalise on Chancellor George Osborne’s agenda, as “devolution is firmly in [his] back pocket”. Devo Connect will build on Connect’s expertise in delivering successful regional campaigns, in supporting a wide range of public, private and third sector clients in the north, and its understanding of the key people and emerging institutions. The dedicated team will combine expert knowledge in specific policy areas including transport, housing, health, skills, regeneration and planning.
Devo Connect will be led by Connect’s Executive Chairman, Gill Morris. She commented: “UK politics is changing. What started in Manchester is now spreading. Now is certainly the time for businesses and organisations to find out what the Northern Powerhouse really means.
“Devolution definitely presents new opportunities and I am delighted that we will be offering clients, old and new, a range of innovative products such as a bespoke devolution audit, tailored devo monitoring and perceptions testing, plus services including training, corporate communications and strategic political and policy engagement advice.”
Steve Barwick, a Senior Policy Consultant based in the north said: “Over time we will see more and more power and funds transfer away from Westminster. This will change the way decisions are made and where they are taken, necessitating a shift in stakeholder communications away from Westminster and Whitehall to City Halls across the country. We are gearing up to help businesses and all organisations to prepare for, and understand, devolution and give clients the latest intelligence and insight.”
