Sandwell Council of Voluntary Organisations - SCVO. Supporting the Growth of Community Action in Sandwell.

The European Social Fund (ESF) and Black Country Learning and Skills Council has opened its third round of Community Grants aimed at extending employment opportunities for all.  A workshop to provide advice and guidance to applicants is being held at 4.00 pm on Tuesday 12th January 2010 at Black Country Consortium (DY5 1LW).  Contact Toni Hickman on 01384 471 160 for more details.

Round 3 – ESF Black Country Community Grant Scheme
Deadline for applications: 5.00pm Wednesday 17th February 2010

The Grants are intended to benefit unemployed and economically inactive people who face barriers to employment, over the age of 16. 

Outcomes are based on progression, rather than achievement of jobs or qualifications. Projects could cover: Removal of Barriers; Non-Accredited Learning; Soft skills; Accredited Learning. If your application is successful you will have to complete paperwork to show how you are achieving your outcomes.

This grant is aimed at local groups helping workless people move closer to employment by providing up to £12,000 for projects run by organisations with an annual turnover of less than £100,000. We particularly welcome applications for organisations intending to work with the disabled, women and the economically inactive.

Please note that you can not apply for a Round 3 grant if you are already in receipt of a Round 1 or 2 grant.

If you have any queries please contact Sophie Thompson on the details given below. An application form can be obtained by phone: 01384 471116; sophie_Thompson@blackcountryconsortium.co.uk