Kirklees Together

Community organisations across Kirklees are set to deliver innovative projects that help residents overcome barriers to employment after securing funding through the Healthy Working Life Community Grants Programme. 

Funded through the Department for Work and Pensions’ Economic Inactivity Trailblazer programme, via the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the grants programme supports voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations to deliver community-based activities that improve health, wellbeing, confidence, skills and pathways towards employment for economically inactive residents.  

Strong demand from the VCSE sector 

The response to the programme demonstrated the commitment of Kirklees’ voluntary and community sector to supporting residents who face complex barriers to work. 

Following a competitive assessment process, 15 projects have been awarded funding, with a total investment of £194.5K being allocated to organisations delivering innovative health, wellbeing, skills and employability support across Kirklees. 

What the funding will support 

The funded projects will work with residents who are currently economically inactive, including people living with health conditions or disabilities, carers, older workers, people experiencing homelessness, ex-offenders, women, and people from ethnically diverse communities.  

Projects will provide a range of tailored support, including: 

• Health and wellbeing activities 

• Confidence-building programmes 

• Community-based skills development 

• Volunteering opportunities 

• Creative health initiatives 

• Intensive wraparound support 

• Pathways into learning, training and employment 

The programme is designed to help people take positive first steps towards improved wellbeing, skills development and economic participation in trusted community settings.  

Supporting residents furthest from the labour market 

The Healthy Working Life Community Grants Programme forms part of the wider Economic Inactivity Trailblazer initiative, bringing together health, employment and skills services to support residents who may not engage with mainstream provision.  

By investing in community organisations that already have strong relationships within neighbourhoods, the programme aims to reach residents who are often the furthest from the labour market and provide personalised support that meets their individual needs. 

Building stronger local partnerships 

The programme also encourages collaboration between VCSE organisations, health services and employment support providers, helping to create more joined-up support for residents across Kirklees.  

Funded organisations will begin delivery over the coming months, with projects contributing to improved health and wellbeing, progression into skills and employment support, and stronger integration of health and work services at a neighbourhood level.  

Investing in people, health and opportunity 

Cllr Sarah Wood, Leader of Kirklees Council said: 

“The Healthy Working Life Community Grants Programme is a great example of how working with local community organisations can help residents overcome barriers and access the support they need. 

“By investing in these 15 projects, we’re helping people improve their health and wellbeing, build confidence and develop skills that can open up new opportunities in work and everyday life. 

“Working together with our voluntary and community sector, health services and employment partners will help us reach more residents and provide support that reflects the needs of our local communities.” 

What happens next 

Successful organisations will now work with Kirklees Council’s Employment and Skills team to finalise project delivery arrangements before commencing activity. 

The projects will run through to March 2027, supporting residents across Kirklees to take meaningful steps towards healthier, more independent and economically active futures.