THE West of England has been awarded £229,000 funding through the £2.3-million Future Ready Fund.

The three-year national programme is designed to close the career readiness gap through high-quality, modern work experience.

The region is one of just 10 areas across England selected to take part, supporting young people facing socio-economic disadvantage and other barriers.

With delivery running from January 2026 to summer 2028, participants will access progressive, high-quality work experiences with a range of employers over three years.

Across the 10 regions, 3,750 young people will benefit from tailored work experience, targeted outreach and employer engagement.

The programme comes at a critical time, with nearly one million young people out of work nationally and employers reporting widening skills gaps.

In the West of England, the fund will be delivered through the Careers Hub. It works with schools, colleges and employers to expand access to meaningful work experience and employer encounters, helping young people build skills, confidence and clearer career pathways.

Support will focus on young people on free school meals and with low levels of attendance, ensuring opportunities reach those who need them most.

Evidence shows that while high‑quality work experience significantly improves employability and workplace skills, access remains unequal.

More than 375 young people will be supported from 15 schools across the West Country including Writhlington School in Radstock.

The mayor of the West of England, Helen Godwin, said: “Where you grow up should never limit where you can go. Too many young people miss out on high-quality work experience simply because of their background.

"This investment will help level the playing field, connecting young people with real employers, real workplaces and real opportunities over several years, part of our drive through the West of England Growth Strategy to create thousands of new jobs and clear routes into work and skills for local people.”