Voluntary and community groups in Wellingborough with an annual turnover of less than £300,000 have been given the chance to access funds to deliver projects that support ‘hard to reach’ individuals in joining the labour market.
Careers specialists, Futures Advice, Skills and Employment has been selected by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) to administer the Northamptonshire ESF Community Grants Fund.
Jointly funded by the SFA and the European Social Fund, the grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 are available to support a wide range of activities including
– initial help with basic skills
– taster work experience including voluntary work
– training, advice and counselling
– confidence building
– job search assistance including the provision of equipment and other help necessary to secure employment
– first contact engagement activities
Louise Thompson, Futures’ Development and Funding Manager, said: “Many unemployed people are simply unable to follow traditional routes into employment. They need more intensive and bespoke support and guidance than can be offered by Job Centres or other similar organisations.
“Often, this level of support is better provided by community and voluntary organisations that know their local communities well. We’re inviting such organisations to apply for funding that will allow them to help very vulnerable people overcome significant barriers to progression.”
Applications opened for the first round of funding close on Tuesday 2 August at 4.00pm. The grants will be allocated during the week commencing Monday 15 August 2016.