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North Somerset programme supports over 300 residents with training and jobs

The programme offered help to those facing redundancy, mental health challenges, digital exclusion, disability, language barriers and social isolation. 

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Hundreds of residents in North Somerset gained skills, confidence and employment opportunities through the Opportunity North Somerset programme. 

North Somerset Council delivered the programme with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supporting more than 300 people between April 2025 and March 2026.

The programme offered help to those facing redundancy, mental health challenges, digital exclusion, disability, language barriers and social isolation. 

Weekly employability hubs, training courses, mock interviews, employer events and digital inclusion activities were run in partnership with organisations across the region.

Partners included Weston College, Gilbert Ash, Jacobs, Bristol Airport, Jobcentre Plus, libraries, Women’s Work Lab, VANS, health providers and community groups. 

Over 220 residents attended employability hub sessions, receiving advice from Work Well, Citizens Advice, the Department for Work and Pensions, Talking Therapies and SEND support services.

Employers such as Gilbert Ash, Jacobs, Octavius and Womble Bond Dickinson ran mock interviews, mentoring and workshops to help residents build confidence and improve interview skills.

One participant who had been made redundant after 30 years in the same role secured a new job with North Somerset Council after receiving support with qualifications, CV writing and interview preparation. 

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Another, diagnosed with autism and struggling with anxiety and depression after redundancy, received job search planning and interview support and secured work at Hinkley Point. 

Refugees and new arrivals received English language training, employability support and digital access, with specialist ESOL health and safety courses improving English and workplace knowledge.

Refurbished laptops, Chromebooks, smartphones and SIM cards were given to residents to support online learning and job searches. 

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The council worked with Donate IT, libraries and community partners to boost access to donated devices and improve digital connectivity across North Somerset.

The programme helped residents move into jobs, training, volunteering and work placements and strengthened links between employers, support services and local communities. 

Mark Canniford, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places at North Somerset Council, said: “Opportunity North Somerset has made a real difference to residents across our communities by helping people overcome barriers, build confidence and access meaningful opportunities.

“The success of the programme reflects the strength of partnership working across North Somerset, with employers, training providers and community organisations all coming together to support local people.

“It is particularly encouraging to see residents gaining employment, qualifications and renewed confidence through tailored support.”

Claire Ramsay, Youth Guarantee Business Development Officer, said: “Every resident’s journey is different, and this programme has allowed us to provide personalised support that meets people where they are.

“Whether someone needs help rebuilding confidence after redundancy, improving digital skills, accessing training or preparing for interviews, the project has shown the value of sustained, practical and compassionate support.”

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