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Gateshead Council: Community Grants, Digital Inclusion And Pathways To Employment

Gateshead Council  is investing £207,000 via UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment priority People and Skills to deliver UKSPF Community Grants, Digital Inclusion and Pathways to Employment in 2024/25.   

The objectives of this investment priority include boosting core skills and supporting unemployed and inactive adults aged 19 plus to progress into work by targeting adults with no or low-level qualifications and skills, and reducing levels of economic inactivity and improving employment outcomes for specific cohorts who face labour market barriers.    

In context:   

The average household income in Gateshead is nearly £11,000 less than the average across England.   

72% of the working age population (16-64) of Gateshead residents are in employment which compares to an average of 76.9% for England .  

22% of Gateshead residents have no qualifications compared with 18% in England, and 28% have level 4 qualification or above compared with 34% in England.   

22% of residents in Gateshead have no qualifications compared with 18% in England.​   

Data source: Office for National Statistics 2021 GrCensus . 

 We are seeking applications from voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations (VCSEs) who can deliver projects within Gateshead that:   

  • engage 'hard-to-reach' residents in learning through voluntary and community sector organisations service-delivery activities  

  • equip people with the skills needed for life and work including basic skills (digital, English, ESOL and maths), life skills and career skills   

  • help people build confidence, motivation, and a sense of purpose through learning activities and social connections   

  • develop innovative approaches to attract underrepresented participant groups into learning

  • increase levels of digital inclusion, with a focus on essential digital skills, communicating the benefits of getting online and staying safe, and in-community support to provide individuals with the skills, confidence and trust to stay online

  • projects for people who lack the digital skills needed for work

  • provide digital skills modules embedded into vocational projects

  • support progression into further education and training, and employment, including self-employment, following support

Contact

Michelle Hall
michellehall@gateshead.gov.uk
0191 433 8545
Gateshead Council