European Social Fund (ESF)

The European Social Fund (ESF) is one of four Structural Funds designed to strengthen economic and social cohesion in the European Union.

The ESF will provide about £4.5 billion in Great Britain from 2000 to 2006. It’s main purpose is to support the annual UK Employment Action Plan, which sets out how UK policies and initiatives take account of the European Employment Guidelines established within the European Employment Strategy.

The ESF aims to help unemployed and inactive people enter work; provide opportunities for people at a disadvantage in the labour market; promote lifelong learning; develop the skills of employed people and improve women’s participation in the labour market.

For more information about ESF visit – www.esf.gov.uk