Update on European Social Fund Money
Somerset Community Foundation has led a bid to manage the European Social Fund Community Grants programme on behalf of 6 community foundations across the South West.

The Community Grants programme, which will be provided through the SW Learning and Skills Council, is aimed at helping the most isolated and marginalised unemployed people towards work. The scheme will provide grants up to £12,000 for local projects that will help the target groups move towards mainstream support, for example provided by local colleges and Job Centre plus.

Justin Sargent said "By working together the community foundations can provide a unique way for the Learning and Skills Council distribute its Community Grants at the local level throughout the region. We will provide a consistent and professional approach to grant-making, ensuring that the most vulnerable people in our society may be reached and the Council achieves its objectives."

Most of the community foundation already have a track record of this kind of scheme, having delivered the Global Grants programme. Under this scheme local groups provided opportunities for people to develop new skills, try out opportunities or simply develop their own confidence. Blooming Youth, in Glastonbury (pictured below) helped marginalised young people to develop team and communication skills through its horticultural project.

The Foundation will hear the outcome of the tender in July.

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