Objective 3 is one of the three priority objectives of the European Structural Funds. More information on the national picture
The ESF Objective 3 programme has been used regionally to fund a wide range of activity, from provision of skills for life (basic skills) for beneficiaries from socially excluded groups, to higher level skills training and training for small and medium sized enterprise (SME) employees.
Final activity was focussed upon delivery of aims and objectives identified as part of the programme's mid-term review. This included a greater focus on economically inactive beneficiaries, including disabled, ethnic minorities and those aged 50+. In addition, activity was focussed on SMEs that were not currently involved in any form of structured training. Activity also focused on sectors where skill shortages exist, such as construction and childcare, aiming to achieve key priorities detailed within the revised Regional Economic Strategy (RES).
All ESF activity needed to address a number of key ‘horizontal’ themes. These were;
Sustainable Development – this involves ensuring that project design and delivery address economic, social and environmental objectives at the same time.
Equal Opportunities – projects must ensure that projects promote equal opportunities with regard to race, gender, disability and age.
Information Society – projects are encouraged to fully exploit the potential of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to enable information and access to be more widely available.
