European Social Fund in England

Technical Assistance

Technical assistance funds will be available to finance the preparatory, management, monitoring, evaluation, information and control activities of the Operational Programme, together with activities to reinforce the administrative capacity for implementing the funds, at national and regional levels.

This will include the programme’s publicity and communication strategy, support for the cross-cutting themes of gender equality and equal opportunities and sustainable development, the development and implementation of programme monitoring and evaluation systems, and where appropriate support for the delivery of transnational and inter-regional activity.

Technical assistance will also be available to third sector networks to support participation by voluntary and community organisations in the programme.

ESF will normally fund up to 50% of the costs of technical assistance activity (except in Cornwall where ESF will fund up to 75% of the costs of Technical assistance activity).

The technical assistance strategy has been approved by the ESF Programme Monitoring Committee.

How to apply for Technical Assistance

Organisations wishing to apply for technical assistance at regional level should contact their regional Government Office to discuss their proposal before applying. Organisations wishing to apply for technical assistance at national level should contact DWP's ESF Division. The technical assistance application form is attached.