OxLEP Skills have announced the significant rollout of their ‘No Limits’ inclusive employability support programme across the Cherwell district – aiming to remove barriers that residents might have in getting into or returning to work, education or training.
The ‘No Limits’ programme is funded in Cherwell until March 2025 by Cherwell District Council, through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and is being delivered by food distribution and education charity SOFEA.
The programme aims to provide person-centred support for Cherwell residents (aged 16 plus) who are seeking employment, or who are economically inactive (i.e. not actively seeking work), to address barriers they may have to accessing education, training or employment.
This may include individuals who have experienced physical and mental health challenges, a form of exclusion, domestic violence, unemployment, redundancy and low skills/qualification attainment.
The programme is set to provide individuals with up to 30 hours of 1:1 support with finding employment, education, or training – with support in areas such as CV writing, application forms and preparation for interviews.
The programme also offers support through the provision of travel bursaries for getting to interviews or the first month of a job or apprenticeship if this is a barrier – and the provision of electronic devices, data and informal digital training programmes for individuals experiencing digital poverty.
Other barriers to employment, education or training (including green skills) – such as certifications or training requirements – can also be accessed and funded through the programme.
Sally Andreou – Skills Hub Manager at OxLEP – said: “OxLEP Skills is delighted to announce the continuation of the ‘No Limits’ programme across Cherwell, through this UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation. We are excited to continue our partnership with the fantastic SOFEA on this project, which aims to help local people gain skills and access resources that can support them into employment.”
“It is essential we continue to support those in our communities struggling to gain employment opportunities and support the wider rollout of skills and training provision.”
Councillor Lesley McLean, Deputy Leader of Cherwell District Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Property and Regeneration, said: “There are all sorts of reasons why people might need a helping hand returning to the workforce or to education.
“This important investment is a sign that we believe in our residents’ potential – we want people to flourish in work and education and the No Limits programme is an excellent way for people to embrace new skills and opportunities as they prepare for the next stage of their careers.”