ESF Community Learning Grants in the North West– Briefing Days

Does your group want to help people overcome barriers and gain the skills and confidence to get back into work? 

Nearly £2m is available to be given out over the next two years in the North West as  ESF Community Learning Grants.

These are grants up to a maximum of £12,000 available to support some of the hardest to reach communities and individuals, to help people access further learning or training that could lead to employment.

The funding can be applied for by small community and voluntary groups, registered charities & social enterprises, with preference given to organisations with a turnover of no more than £300,000 per year in each of the last 2 years. 

The grants can support a wide range of activities including:

·         Initial help with basic skills

·         Taster work experience including voluntary work

·         Training, advice and counselling

·         Job search assistance

·         Confidence building and personal development

·         Support to individuals to overcome barriers to learning or employment

The programme is aimed at all people out of work, or those recently made redundant, but with a particular priority given to support for:

•    People with disabilities or health conditions (including those with learning difficulties, mental health issues or drug and alcohol dependency problems)

•    People aged 50 or over and seeking employment

•    People from ethnic minorities

•    Women

•    Lone parents

The programme for the North West is being managed by the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and the first of several rounds has just been launched, with a closing date of 5pm on Friday 6^th January 2012.

Briefing events will be held in Manchester on 24 November, Liverpool on 25 November and Lancaster on 2 December 2011. Places are limited – so book now to avoid disappointment!