Survey returns to measure sector confidence

A North East science sector survey has returned.

Organisations across the region’s health, pharma and life sciences community are being invited to take part in the North East Pharma, HealthTech and Life Sciences Pulse of the Industry Survey 2025, which aims to assess the health of one of the area’s most dynamic sectors.

The survey is delivered by Square One Law in partnership with the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) and marks the second year of the initiative, designed to provide a clear snapshot of the challenges, opportunities and priorities facing businesses across the industry.

Covering organisations operating in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare services and medical devices, the barometer will feed into a detailed report used to inform policy discussions, support funding bids and promote the strengths of the North East’s life sciences ecosystem.

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.”

Findings from last year’s inaugural report have already been used by organisations to lobby for change, secure investment and raise the sector’s profile at both regional and national levels.

The first survey gathered responses from more than 30 companies, the majority of which were small and medium-sized enterprises, and highlighted key pressures around access to capital, availability of lab space and growing international competition.

Despite these challenges, the report also painted a positive picture, showing many businesses achieving stable or improved financial performance, securing funding, entering new markets and progressing clinical trials and patent activity.

Organisers hope this year’s survey will build on that momentum, strengthening the evidence base 

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, you can complete the survey here.

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