Charities urged to cash-in on job support funding

Charities and local groups that upskill people to find work are being offered a free financial boost from our Community Matters Fund.

Grants totalling £250,000 are available for projects supporting jobseekers in our South West, South Wales and Midlands regions.

We are giving money to community groups that:

• Improve employability through CV masterclasses, workshops, and interview coaching
• Develop professional skills to help people into skilled trade roles, such as in construction, mechanics, plumbing, electrical work, digital technology, and clean energy
• Offer professional accreditation programmes, placements, and work experience
• Support people returning to work after a long-term absence, for example due to chronic health conditions, full-time caring roles, or military service

Registered charities and non-profit companies can apply for up to £5,000, while unregistered community organisations can seek up to £2,000.

Applications close on Thursday 23 April at 5pm.

Emily Green, from our Social Impact & Community Engagement Team, said: “We want to support programmes that develop practical skills and boost employment prospects for people furthest from the job market.

“The need is significant. About one in eight young people in the UK are not in education, employment, or training.

“Skills gaps are also preventing other untapped talent and under-represented groups from finding or returning to work.

“We’d encourage any charity or community organisation looking to provide pathways to stable employment to apply for funding before 23 April.”

Charities and community groups can apply to the Community Matters Fund here.