Funding to tackle education inequality in the West Midlands announced
Major new funding to help tackle education inequality in the West Midlands has been announced.
The Fair Education Alliance (FEA) has selected the West Midlands Combined Authority as one of its partners for the Neighbourhood to National strategy and will receive £500,000 to boost opportunities for young people.
The strategy is a £6 million programme, supported by Bloomberg, across England.
The partnership will focus on improving post-16 outcomes and see 92 FEA organisations working in the West Midlands with businesses, schools, young people and community groups to tackle longstanding educational inequities in the region.
The £500,000 funding will be used to pilot interventions such as modern work experience frameworks, targeted mental health support and inclusive employer standards.
The West Midlands has one of the highest unemployment rates of any UK region, with 29,000 young people claiming employment-related benefits.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “I want young people to have the best start in life, no matter their background, and the backing of the Fair Education Alliance is a vote of confidence in our region that supports my mission to deliver just that.
“Investing in our young people in this way gives them the chance to achieve their full potential and help build our region’s future prosperity.”
Jemma Read, Global Head of Corporate Philanthropy, Bloomberg, said: “Bloomberg is committed to expanding opportunities for young people, and the Neighbourhood to National Strategy reflects the kind of place-based leadership needed to drive lasting change.
“We’re proud to support the Fair Education Alliance and work alongside Mayors who are championing better outcomes for children and young people in the communities that need it most.”
And Gina Cicerone, Co-CEO of the Fair Education Alliance, said: “The challenges facing young people in the West Midlands demand urgent, collective action.
“That’s why this partnership places collaboration and innovation at its heart – working with Alliance members, Metro Mayors and communities to create long-term change.
“We’re looking forward to working together to deepen our understanding of what is working in the West Midlands – what resourcing and delivery truly improves outcomes for children and young people – helping to close a nationwide gap in understanding.
“Thanks to the support given by Bloomberg and other funding partners, we can connect neighbourhood to national and build a fairer future for every child in the West Midlands.”
