The rise of health tech has seen employment in life sciences increase 61% in the North West in the last five years, according to new analysis by global tax services company, Ryan.
Bioscience and health technology sector statistics released by three government departments show the number of people in the region employed at research and development (R&D) sites associated with life science businesses has reached more than 7,675.
The region has also seen 28% growth in the number of life sciences sites conducting R&D.
Cheshire East is home to the most life sciences sites in the region with 167, followed by Manchester with 139 and Halton with 63.
Nigel Holmes, director of research and development at Ryan, said: “The UK has long been a trailblazer for life sciences, responsible for many ground breaking discoveries, and so it is fantastic to see this growth continue across the country and to drive new employment, especially in the North West – now the third biggest hub for life sciences in the UK.
“Innovation funding available from the UK government makes the R&D behind life sciences possible. It offers a much-needed financial boost, providing companies with a cash injection or corporation tax deduction for qualifying R&D projects.
“These financial incentives are invaluable, especially for small and midsize enterprises (SMEs), and are paid back to taxpayers through the incredible technological and scientific advancements they make, and they keep the UK on the map as a champion of innovation.”
Locations with the most life sciences sites in the North West
Overall, the number of people employed by life sciences businesses in the UK increased by 117% in the five years to 2021/22, with 304,190 employees in the latest data.
London has seen the biggest increase in employment, followed by Northern Ireland and the North West.
