The aim of this fund is to build the skills levels of Manchester residents while complementing and providing progression routes to further learning and employment support.

The purpose of the Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities (NLDC) fund is to:

• reach disadvantaged communities and individuals;

• support local voluntary and community sector organisations to develop their capacity to deliver learning opportunities for residents of disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) stipulate that a minimum of 75% of NLDC revenue provision must support Skills for Jobs. Focusing NLDC funding on Skills for Jobs will enable the funds to be used to prepare adults from disadvantaged areas for sustainable employment.

The City Council's and MAES' priorities are also to tackle the issue of worklessness amongst key groups in the most deprived wards of the City, particularly those residents in receipt of out of work benefits.

For further information or an application form, contact Elaine Borrell, on 0161 234 5610, or email: e.borrell@manchester.gov.uk

Application deadline: Friday 17 July, 12 noon