Collective learning, effective demand, loss of work and loss of direction: The growing regional divide

The local economy relies on a division of labour that develops highly specialized skills. In searching for an understanding of the growing work gap within the United Kingdom, emphasis is placed on recessions that connect to loss and redundancy of physical and human capital. High levels of regional unemployment following deindustrialization convert into high levels of regional non-work in later years. The loss of an economic base leaves a gap in the community and economy that people struggle to bridge. Market forces work strongly against certain groups in society, including those at some disadvantage in the labour market.