European Social Fund

The European Social Fund (ESF) Programme can help and support you develop the skills and confidence you need to find work. ESF projects are delivered within the community and taking part is voluntary.

Who ESF is for

You can take part in an ESF project if you are:

currently out of work or unavailable for work (such as suffering from illness, working less than 16 hours per week, or have family / caring responsibilities)
a young person aged 16 to 24 who is not in education, employment or training
a family with anyone who is 16 or over and who is not in education, employment or training
out of work and have a disability

How ESF can help you

An ESF project can help you:

develop your work-based skills
gain access to training and achieve recognised qualifications
improve your self-confidence and motivation
get help, advice and guidance with your job search
reach your full potential and meet new people

What to expect

The European Social Fund supports a wide and diverse range of projects delivered within local communities across Northern Ireland. All of these projects can help and support you get into education, training or work.

Projects offer a range of services, courses and activities, including advice, guidance, support, practical training and qualifications that can help you achieve your full potential.

Taking part in an ESF project can give you the chance to meet new people and make new friends. You can find a project in your area that meets your needs and is delivered at a pace that suits you.

Projects available

For further information on ESF projects and who to contact to take part, take a look at the pages below:

Case studies

To read stories of people who have taken part in ESF projects, follow the link below:

European Social Fund case studies

Useful links

Chat with a careers adviser

Careers webchat is available from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Outside of these hours, or if all advisers are busy, you can ask questions online. Before using the webchat service, read the Careers Service’s privacy notice

Chat with a careers adviser in Northern Ireland

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