Local charities that are upskilling people to find work are being offered a free financial boost from National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED).
The company is giving money to community groups that improve employability; develop professional skills; offer professional accreditation programmes, placements, and work experience; and support people returning to work after a long-term absence.
NGED is offering £250,000 from its Community Matters Fund to programmes supporting jobseekers in its regions. Registered charities and non-profit companies can apply for up to £5,000, while unregistered community organisations can apply for up to £2,000. Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 23 April.
Emily Green, from NGED’s social impact and 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 underrepresented groups from finding or returning to work.
“We’d encourage any Gloucestershire charity looking to provide pathways to stable employment to apply for funding before 23 April.”
For more information, visit localgiving.org/community-matters-fund-future-skills-2026