Programme ESF+ Flanders 2021-2027
Programme description
The ESF+ Flanders programme will increase employment opportunities in the region – including for low-qualified people, newly-arrived migrants, persons with disabilities or other vulnerable groups that may face barriers to participating in both the labour market and wider society.
ESF+ activities in the region will also support vulnerable young people, promote skills development and increase engagement in lifelong learning. The aim is to also increase inclusiveness and well-being at the workplace.
Access to employment and active social inclusion
The programme will fund with priority measures that increase job opportunities and lead to employment for vulnerable people, such as young people, long-term unemployed, persons from a migrant background or persons with disabilities. The focus is on the provision of personalised support.
Actions under the priority for social inclusion will aim to help people with weak links to society to overcome obstacles for full participation and integration into the labour market when possible.
Lifelong learning
Under this priority the programme will address inequalities in the education and training system, preventing early school leaving and facilitating the transition between learning and working for at-risk young people. Furthermore, dedicated actions aim to increase participation in lifelong learning for employees as well as for those that are not in employment, focusing on green and digital skills.
Work-life balance
The ESF+ investments in Flanders will also support ‘Workable work’, including through actions that aim to improve the inclusion and well-being of employees at the workplace. Measures as part of this priority will target at-risk employees who are experiencing high levels of stress or low motivation and will include training opportunities that ensure a better work-life balance.
Social Innovation
The programme will also fund activities devoted to social innovation, strengthening the capacity of the Flemish labour-market institutions and services such as the public employment service.
Expected impact
-
More than 300 000 people, including more than 200 000 vulnerable people will directly benefit from the programme;
- 72 000 participants will engage in employment and in addition 68 000 participants will gain a qualification;
- 10 000 participants who had been previously inactive – neither working nor looking for a job – will be engaged in searching for work, participate in training, and/or be offered a job;
- Around 20 per cent of actions under the programme are expected to contribute directly to improving green or digital skills.
Financial information
Breakdown of finances by priority axis
| Priority Axis | EU Investment | National Public Contribution | Total Public Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESF+ | 431.938.669,00 | 572.613.505,00 | 1.004.552.174,00 |
| Total | 431.938.669,00 | 572.613.505,00 | 1.004.552.174,00 |
Priorities and Specific Objectives
Social Europe
Access to employment and activation measures for all
Modernising labour market institutions
Adaptation of workers and enterprises to change
Quality and inclusive education and training systems
Lifelong learning and career transitions
Active inclusion and employability