This chapter explores the socio-economic history of the North East of England, from its industrial rise to its post-industrial decline. It examines the impact of deindustrialisation on communities and the persistent issues of unemployment, economic inactivity, and social exclusion. The chapter also presents the region’s high unemployment and inactivity rates, linking these with health challenges and limited opportunities for workforce re-entry. Social inclusion initiatives emerge as vital for addressing these issues. The author highlights the fact that government and EU-backed programmes, such as Building Better Opportunities (BBO) offer holistic support to reduce social exclusion and foster resilience. This background lays the groundwork for an examination of Wise Steps, focusing on its approach to overcoming the North East’s socio-economic challenges.