European Social Fund in England

2000 - 2006: Objectives 1, 2 and 3

ESF money is shared out under three Objectives, which are designed to focus resources on those in greatest need. Objectives 1 and 2 target specific regions or areas, while Objective 3 develops human resources.

• Active labour market policies
• Equal opportunities for all and promoting social inclusion
• Lifelong learning
• Adaptability and entrepreneurship
• Improving the role of women in the labour market

You can read more about policy fields in the Applications Guide.

ESF is also available through the EQUAL initiative, which is developing new ways to tackle disadvantage in the labour market. Instead of policy fields and measures, EQUAL has nine thematic priorities. More about EQUAL.

Objective 1

• Aim: To develop regions where the economy is lagging behind most of Europe.
• Eligible areas: Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Merseyside, South Yorkshire, West Wales and the Valleys, the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

• Aim: To renew industrial, urban, rural and fisheries areas that are in decline.
• Eligible areas: parts of England, Scotland and Wales. Government Offices, Scottish Government and the Welsh Assembly Government can advise which areas are eligible. Gibraltar is also eligible for Objective 2.

• Aims:
  • To tackle long-term unemployment.
  • To help young people and those at risk from not being able to find work
  • To improve training, education and counselling for lifelong learning
  • To encourage entrepreneurship and adaptability in the workplace
  • To promote equal opportunities and improve the role of women in the workforce
• Eligible areas: All of Great Britain except Objective 1 areas.

Objective 1 - 'More about Objective 1'

Objective 2 - 'More about Objective 2'

Objective 3 - 'More about Objective 3'