Ulster University launches major research on inclusive employment barriers and solutions in Derry's Guildhall

PICTURED ABOVE: (Left to right) Professor Duncan Morrow, Director of Community Engagement at Ulster University; Claire Lynch, EPIC Futures NI Project Manager; Professor Kristel Miller, Director of EPIC Futures NI; and Professor Malachy O’Neill, Ulster University’s Director of Regional Engagement, pictured with the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh.

Ulster University has unveiled significant new research detailing the barriers that prevent thousands of people across Northern Ireland from joining or returning to the workforce, as well as practical, evidence-based steps that government, employers, and communities can take to build a more inclusive labour market.

The research findings were presented at Inform, Influence, Inspire: EPIC Futures NI 2025 Findings & Insights for Policy and Practice in The Great Hall of the Guildhall, Derry.  

The event brought together senior representatives from government, business, academia and the voluntary and community sector to hear early mid-point insights on a range of EPIC Futures research topics such as age inclusive workplaces, supporting greater workforce engagement in cross border areas, transversal skills and lifelong learning. 

Alongside these wider insights, the programme also showcased new evidence emerging from eight projects funded through the EPIC Futures NI Phase 1 Policy Commissioning call. These projects are being delivered by a diverse group of organisations working individually or in partnership, including the Federation of Small Business, People 1st International, Ulster University and The London School of Economics, the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation, Business in the Community Northern Ireland and Ulster University, the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, Stranmillis University College, and NI Maritime and Offshore (NIMO).

The findings showcase the work of the UKRI funded Local Policy Innovation Partnership (LPIP), led by Ulster University, which is developing evidence-based solutions that promote fair and inclusive employment across Northern Ireland.

Many people across Northern Ireland encounter barriers that affect their ability to take up or progress in work. These include caring responsibilities, disability or health conditions, transitions from education, later-career pathways, or local access to skills and opportunities.  

By placing lived experience and place-based insight at the centre, today’s findings move beyond simply identifying these challenges. They highlight where practical, supportive interventions can create the conditions for sustainable participation, while ensuring that those who cannot work receive the support and recognition they deserve.  

Professor Kristel Miller, Director of EPIC Futures NI, and Claire Lynch, Project Manager, pictured with Professor Malachy O’Neill, Mark Magill, Professor Martin McCracken from Ulster University alongside project leads representing the eight organisations funded through the EPIC Futures NI Phase 1 Policy Commissioning Call - the Federation of Small Business; People 1st International; Ulster University and The London School of Economics; the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation; Business in the Community Northern Ireland and Ulster University; the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre; Stranmillis University College; and NI Maritime and Offshore (NIMO)

Professor Kristel Miller, Principal Investigator, EPIC Futures NI, said: “Fair and inclusive employment is shaped by the interplay of place, sector and lived experience. The insights shared today highlight not just the challenges people face, but the practical steps that can help create the right conditions for participation.

“As a research partnership grounded in evidence and collaboration, EPIC Futures NI aims to bring forward solutions that genuinely support individuals, employers and communities. This work provides a strong foundation for meaningful, targeted improvements that reflect people’s circumstances, aspirations and potential.”

Professor Duncan Morrow, Director of Community Engagement, Ulster University, said: “Employment is not only an economic concern; it is closely tied to dignity, wellbeing and the long-term prosperity of our communities. As a civic university, Ulster University has a responsibility to produce research that goes beyond analysis to illuminate solutions that make a real difference in people’s everyday lives. Today’s findings reflect that commitment.

“They show the power of evidence, lived experience and partnership in shaping a fairer and more inclusive future, and they mark an important step towards translating insight into action across Northern Ireland.”

Professor Martin McCracken, Research Director at Ulster University, added: “Workplaces across Northern Ireland are navigating real recruitment and retention pressures. The evidence presented today points to where supportive approaches can have the greatest impact in helping people access, remain in and thrive within work.”

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, said: “It was a privilege to host today’s event at the Guildhall as part of a wider regional effort to promote fair and inclusive employment.

"The challenges explored are shared across all our communities, and the insights offer real opportunities to strengthen participation, improve wellbeing, and support inclusive growth.

“By working collectively across government, business, education and the community sector, we can help more people access meaningful work and ensure our workforce is resilient and ready for the future.”

Guide Dogs NI celebrates 40 years in NI with 'Santa Paws' fundraiser in Derry

Pet owners are invited to bring their dogs along to get a 'paw-trait' together with Santa Claus

Education Minister 'must have ambition to deliver free school meals'

The SDLP brought forward a motion to highlight the number of children going hungry, with one in five living in poverty not qualifying for free school meals

Wednesday's event marked a pivotal moment for shaping future policy and practice. The findings shared will continue to inform ongoing work across government, industry and the voluntary and community sector, helping to ensure that fairness, inclusion and opportunity remain central to Northern Ireland’s employment landscape.