Member News
Organisations from across the North East’s health and life sciences sector are being urged to have their say on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The North East Pharma, HealthTech and Life Sciences Pulse of the Industry Survey (2025), delivered by Square One Law in partnership with the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), aims to take a “temperature check” of the industry and has returned for a second year.
The findings from the inaugural report have already helped organisations lobby for change, secure funding and promote the sector’s strengths, and the organisers are hopeful that this year’s barometer will further build on this success.
Helen Brain, head of commercial law at Square One Law, said: “There are so many people and businesses doing incredible things in the North East when it comes to health and life sciences but all too often, they don’t receive the support they perhaps need.
“That is why the North East Life Sciences Barometer is so important and why we pleased that it is returning for a second year. It provides incredible insight into the industry, spotlighting the opportunities and challenges facing the sector and as we’ve already seen, fight and secure the support and finance required to ensure the region’s sector continues to realise its potential.
“But to ensure that continues, we need as many people from across the sector to get involved and have their say, so we’d encourage anyone actively working in the industry to participate. It only takes five minutes, but we can’t stress enough how those five minutes could make a real difference for their areas of study or work.”
The health and life sciences industry is one of the region's most dynamic sectors, with businesses spanning biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare services and medical devices.
By participating in the survey, firms will contribute to a valuable data pool, enabling the creation of a detailed report that will support future conversations with key stakeholders and promote the region’s many success stories.
The inaugural report gathered insights from over 30 companies, 90% of which were SMEs, and found that access to capital, lab space, and international competition proved significant hurdles for the region’s businesses.
The findings also revealed that, despite those challenges, most businesses reported stable or improved financial results throughout the year and companies were increasingly securing funding, expanding into new markets, and progressing in clinical trials and patents.
Dr Alex Cole, director of market strategy at CPI, added: "“This barometer gives us the insight we need to champion the region more effectively. Every response strengthens our ability to push for the right support, the right investment and the right conditions for companies to thrive.”
If you are a business operating in the North East’s health and life sciences sector, please complete the survey here and make your voice heard.
