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European Social Fund is “Making A Difference In Life”

22 December 2009

People in Northern Ireland are experiencing a real difference in their lives, thanks to the European Social Fund.

That was the message in the Department for Employment and Learning “Making a Difference in Life” report published today.

It features some of the views and experiences of people gained through their participation in projects funded by the Northern Ireland European Social Fund (NIESF) which is managed by the Department.

Sir Reg Empey, the Minister for Employment and Learning, said: “The Northern Ireland European Social Fund aims to provide help to significant numbers of people who are at a disadvantage in the labour market.  This report examines how the fund has given practical help to individuals in Northern Ireland and the long term benefits that this funding brings.

“It is good to read that the fund has been able to support such a diverse range of projects in all parts of Northern Ireland with a view to reducing economic inactivity and increasing skills levels.”

The NIESF has two main priorities.  Priority 1 aims to help people into sustainable employment and contribute towards increasing the employment rate, particularly for those groups of people at a disadvantage in the labour market, by reducing economic inactivity and extending employment opportunities.  Currently, 74 projects (mainly from the voluntary and community sector) are being funded under this priority.  Priority 2 aims to improve workforce skills and contribute to increasing productivity, enterprise and competitiveness by raising the skills levels of workers through lifelong learning.  There is one project funded under Priority 2, the ApprenticeshipsNI Programme managed by the Department.

The NIESF programme, which runs from 2007-2013, has €414 million available for Northern Ireland, including €166 million from the European Commission.

Notes to editors:

  1. The Department for Employment and Learning is the Managing Authority for the 2007-13 NIESF.
  2. In addition to the case studies featured in “Making a Difference in Life”, the publication includes a directory of all projects funded under the NIESF.
  3. The report “Making a Difference in Life” is available on the DEL website at publications at http://www.delni.gov.uk/makingadifference.
  4. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.