Community Led Local Development

A major £2.2-million programme that aims to transform communities by boosting enterprise has been announced by North Lincolnshire Council. The Community Led Local Development scheme will tackle long-term unemployment and other social issues in the borough’s most deprived wards. It aims to help 1,150 people, specifically targeting groups including the unemployed, those over 54, the disabled and ethnic minorities. The money will be used to support 70 small and medium-sized businesses, help 35 new enterprises and give 70 individuals the skills needed to launch a business. It will be available in Westcliff and Riddings, Scunthorpe town centre and Scunthorpe east, with a lack of provision identified through community and key stakeholder consultation. In these areas, residents will be encouraged to form action groups which will distribute the funds around five main priorities: • To address health and disability – including mental health – as a barrier to employment • To support entrepreneurship and offer pre-start support for small businesses • To support particular groups – including ethnic minority groups and veterans – into employment • To raise aspirations amongst children and young people • To encourage joint working between local residents, businesses, organisations and other key stakeholders The action groups will be able to apply when the Community Led Local Development scheme starts in 2018. Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Our vision for the Community Lead Local Development scheme is to deliver social regeneration and economic growth by working closely with local communities to tackle the issues that affect them. “The project brings together local residents, small businesses, community groups and other organisations to work on improving their area and the lives of the people who live there. “Through this development plan we will be able to tackle unemployment amongst young people and disadvantaged groups, break down the barriers people face to starting a small business or accessing training, and help people lead healthier lifestyles. “This £2.2m project is a major undertaking to change the lives of an entire generation by reducing entrenched unemployment and deprivation.” The project utilises monies from the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund. For more information about the funding or forming an action group contact businessinfo@northlincs.gov.uk or call 01724297330.