A new scheme aimed at helping people overcome barriers to work on Anglesey, made possible by EU funding, has been welcomed by the Counsel General and Brexit Minister Jeremy Miles.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Led by third sector organisation Môn CF (Môn Communities Forward), the project aims to reduce underemployment and absence rates on the island by supporting people to find solutions to issues including childcare and transport and address them through one to one mentoring and exploring different working practices.
‘Expanding Mȏn’s Horizons’ will also work with employers, specifically focusing on local small and medium-sized enterprises, to adopt or improve their existing workplace strategies and occupational health.
The £1.2 million scheme, which has been supported by £870,000 of EU funding, will help 450 people and up to 250 local businesses over the next 4 years.
Jeremy Miles, who has responsibility for overseeing EU funded programmes, said:
“It is vital we continue to invest these funds in the areas which need it most, removing barriers to work, reducing in-work poverty and helping people move towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
“EU funds have already helped thousands of people across Wales improve their prospects and careers by tackling problems with persistent poverty and ensuring equal opportunities for all. I am pleased we have been able to support this innovative new venture on Ynys Mon and hope this investment will help build on this success.”
Expanding Mȏn’s Horizons Project Manager, Rhys Roberts said:
“This is an exciting project and a major boost for Anglesey. Mȏn CF is delighted to be able to offer a new innovative support programme to employed people on Anglesey looking to develop their careers. We are also excited about the opportunity to help the many small- to medium-sized enterprises on the island.”
In the last decade, EU-funded projects have created 45,000 new jobs and 13,000 new businesses across Wales, while also helping more than 85,000 people into employment.