Funding to reduce unemployment in Wales gets £10 million boost
The UK Government predicts thousands of people in Wales will be "helped back towards employment through support"
The UK Government has announced an extension of its 'economic inactivity trailblazer scheme', aimed at supporting people across Wales and other parts of the UK who are currently out of work.
Each area will receive an additional £10 million , with the aim of helping communities design tailored support, including for mental health needs.
The funding will aim to target areas with some of the highest levels of economic inactivity.
Each area will be able to design programmes that include work-readiness training, employer engagement, mental health support, and community-based social activities to help people build confidence and reconnect with employment opportunities.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden said:
“For too long too many people in Wales have been locked out of the job market, which fails them and fails our economy.
“That is why we are doing things differently – putting local leaders in the driving seat so the right support goes to their community.
“By further investing in our trailblazers we’re helping people who were previously underserved or overlooked to build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.”
The funding comes after this week’s ONS figures showed 9.1 million people remain economically inactive across the UK.
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:
“The UK Government is working with the Welsh Government and others to help people into employment. We know that work benefits people, giving them financial independence and improving their wellbeing.
“It is fantastic news that our Trailblazer scheme is being extended and backed with significant funding so it unlocks many more opportunities for people across Wales, setting them up for success.”
The £10m funding will also be given to:
- York and North Yorkshire
- South Yorkshire
- West Yorkshire
- The North East
- Greater Manchester