Shared Prosperity Fund
People and Skills
The Cheshire West and Chester UKSPF Investment Plan sets out the priorities for People and Skills. For the Transition Year (2025-26) there will be a focus on:
- Providing support for economically inactive adults
- Providing support for NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) young people
Project activity in 2025-2026
With the Transition Year to be only one year (until 31 March 2026) and with a reduced level of funding (50% less than in the previous year), we have decided that the People and Skills strategic theme should concentrate efforts on supporting economically inactive adults and NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) young people. This focus will enable valuable preparation for the upcoming launch of the Connect to Work programme and other Get Britain Working initiatives. Officers are currently reviewing existing relevant programmes with the aim of extending some activity. Details of projects continuing into 2025-26 will be added to the site shortly.
As this is a one-year programme, we will use this funding to complement existing provision already available to residents and businesses such as skills bootcamps, employment support offers (available through Department for Work and Pensions, the Council and other partners) and local further and higher education provision.
Here’s a more detailed overview of the internal projects under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) 2025-26 transition year:
This program is designed to support economically inactive individuals in career readiness and personal development. It provides tailored guidance, mentoring, and skills training to help participants identify career paths, retrain if necessary, build confidence, and prepare for employment. The initiative focuses on people facing barriers to employment, ensuring they have the tools needed to succeed in the workforce.
For further details you can contact Amy.Hill@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
Fresh Start is aimed at 16-19 year olds transitioning into the world of work and new employment opportunities. Where they are overcoming employment challenges, this program offers job search support, CV workshops, interview coaching, and workplace readiness training. The goal is to empower young people who are at risk of NEET (not in education, employment, or training) with the confidence and skills to secure sustainable employment.
For further details you can contact Jennifer.Matthews@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
This initiative helps individuals gain confidence in navigating public transport, fostering independence and accessibility. It is particularly beneficial for young people, individuals with disabilities, and those unfamiliar with public transport systems. The programme provides practical training, route planning assistance, and safety guidance, ensuring participants can travel independently and access education, employment, and social opportunities.
For further details you can contact Janet.Kolita@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Building upon the Multiply initiative, this program will enhance numeracy, literacy, digital skills, and other fundamental abilities of local residents to ensure they are equipped for modern workplaces and daily life.
For further details you can contact Simon.dutton@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Delivery Organisation: Youth Fed
The Better Start Project is designed to provide early intervention and foundational support for individuals seeking to improve their skills and employability. In 2025-26, the project will focus on:
- Expanding literacy and numeracy programs to ensure individuals have essential skills for personal and professional growth.
- Providing digital skills training, helping participants navigate modern workplaces and access online opportunities.
- Offering tailored employability workshops, including CV writing, interview preparation, and workplace readiness training.
- Supporting young people and career changers through mentoring and coaching, helping them transition into sustainable employment.
- Collaborating with community organizations to ensure holistic support, including financial literacy and well-being resources.
For further details you can contact mark.smith@youthfed.org or kevin.bradburne@youthfed.org
Delivery Organisation: Youth Fed
The Pledge Project is a collaborative initiative aimed at fostering skills development, employability, and business engagement. The extension of this project in will focus on expanding its reach and impact by:
- Strengthening employer partnerships to provide more work experience placements, apprenticeships, and mentoring opportunities.
- Enhancing career guidance for young people and job seekers, ensuring they have access to tailored support and industry insights.
- Supporting local businesses in identifying skills gaps and developing training programs that align with workforce needs.
- Encouraging social mobility by providing targeted support for individuals facing barriers to employment, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
For further details you can contact Trevor.Langston@youthfed.org
These initiatives reflect the council’s commitment to skills development, employability, and independence, ensuring that individuals across the Borough have access to opportunities that support their personal and professional growth.
