“The purpose of the funding is to support local voluntary and community sector organisations to develop their capacity to deliver Learning Opportunities for residents of disadvantaged neighbourhoods or to support those working with disadvantaged groups.”
What are the main aims of LCF funding?
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To support applications for innovative projects that reach out and involve people (aged 19 years or over) who would not normally join adult education courses or community learning activities
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To create learning opportunities for Somerset residents who may be disadvantaged - as a result of income, disability, and mental health problems or as a consequence of being a minority group
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To develop learning opportunities within the 46 most disadvantaged wards in Somerset
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To develop learner skills to contribute to social inclusion and community regeneration
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To help the voluntary and community sector develop as training providers
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To widen participation in learning and employment of under-represented groups
Skills for Jobs
The ‘Skills for Jobs’ initiative aims to prepare adults from disadvantaged areas or groups for sustainable employment.
The aim is to target 75% of the total available funds to deliver training and education opportunities which support people wanting to improve their skills and return to work.
The target group is low skilled adults aged 19+, not currently in employment, without a level 2 qualification, but who want to work.
How much can I apply for?
Applications will be considered from £1,000 to a maximum of £8,000.
What is expected in return?
Applicants need to ensure they are able to commit sufficient time and management to the project to ensure its success.
Mid term and final reports are required, along with evidence of delivery and a basic financial outline of expenditure, including production of receipts, where applicable.
All projects have to be completed by the end of the academic year. There are three dates within the year for submitting bids; these are September, November or January.
How do Voluntary and Community groups apply for the funding?
You will need to complete and submit an application – Somerset Skills & Learning manage the funding and provide support and guidance with your application and in the development and delivery of the learning activities. The LCF panel is involved in the decision-making process and allocation of funding and comprises of representatives from the Skills Funding Agency, Somerset Skills & Learning, VISTA, The Community Council for Somerset, Community Development and Economic Regeneration (SCC).
