Training providers in London can access a new £10m fund aimed at boosting the skills levels of socially disadvantaged groups.

The fund, launched by the Mayor’s London Development Agency (LDA) and the European Social Fund (ESF), is aimed at improving the basic skills and job prospects of groups such as those from black and minority ethnic communities, people with disabilities and refugees.

This funding initiative will focus on providing access to skills and training in:
• Basic skills
• Science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills
• Construction
• Tourism
• Engineering
• Creative industries
• Childcare
• ICT
• Transport and logistics
• The voluntary sector

A prospectus, application form and guidance notes are available on the LDA website, www.lda.gov.uk, and the deadline for the return of applications is 12 noon on Thursday 11 November 2004.