A new £250k grant offers a helping hand into the world of work

THIS Summer, National Grid Electricity Distribution has teamed up with Localgiving to support groups that deliver practical, focused programs to boost skills and improve employability for those furthest from the job market.

The Community Matters Fund (Future Skills) is committed to supporting key groups that would most benefit from assistance, including youth (16-25, not in full-time education), people from ethnic minority backgrounds, those with health conditions or disabilities, armed forces veterans, ex-offenders and those returning to work after a long-term absence.

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

• Supporting the development of key professional skills (For example, offering classes in literacy, numeracy or IT)
• Delivering networking and placements (For example, work experience, shadowing and placement schemes)
• Boosting employability (For example, expert support in CV masterclasses and interview coaching)
• Supporting groups of people returning to work after a long-term absence (For example, chronic health conditions, full-time parental/carer role, military service)

We’d welcome a blend of these themes, supporting those groups highlighted above from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds for whom there are barriers to widening employability.

Ellie Patey, National Grid’s Community Engagement Manager, said:

“Significant barriers keep some groups from easily accessing employment opportunities and joining the world of work. National Grid understands the huge potential that exists to upskill and support these under-represented groups and is firmly committed to unlocking this untapped talent. We’re keen to see applications from support groups that deliver practical, focussed programmes to boost skills and improve employability for those furthest from the job market.”

Andrei Yusfin, CEO of Localgiving who is managing the delivery of the grant added:

“We are delighted to be partnering again with National Grid for the latest Community Matters Fund. Work is about more than just earning money. It can create identity, purpose, health and lifestyle benefits, connection to a community and more. But we know that many need a bit of a helping hand when it comes to accessing employment.  Groups in our community are running great projects assisting people to get into work and we are proud to be able to support them with this grant.”

Applications are now open and close on Wednesday 10th July. Organisations that complete applications will be informed of their outcome in August, with money distributed later that month. Find out more

National Grid Electricity Distribution in partnership with Localgiving has awarded over £10 million through its Community Matters Fund to groups in the South West, the Midlands and South Wales since the fund’s launch in 2021.