City of York Council secures over £1 million to help people into work
Government-backed funding to support targeted employment, training, and wellbeing initiatives
The City of York Council is set to receive over £1 million in funding as part of the Government’s Get Britain Working Trailblazer programme, designed to reduce economic inactivity and help local residents into employment, training, and volunteering.
The £1,038,250 grant, provided through the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (YNYCA), will be used to deliver 15 targeted projects across the city. These initiatives will focus on supporting groups most affected by long-term unemployment, including young people, disabled individuals, unpaid carers, and military veterans.
Peter Roderick, Director of Public Health at City of York Council, said the funding will help break down barriers to employment:
“This funding is a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of York residents who face barriers to employment due to health or personal circumstances. We’re proud to be delivering a programme that puts people first—offering tailored support, improving wellbeing, and helping individuals find meaningful work. It’s about building a healthier, more inclusive city.”
Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Economy & Culture, welcomed the investment:
“This investment aligns perfectly with our Economic Strategy and our ambition to create good jobs and a thriving local economy. By working with partners across the city, we’re scaling up what works and piloting new, innovative approaches. It’s a bold step forward in unlocking York’s hidden talent and ensuring no one is left behind.”
The funding will support a range of local initiatives, including mental health hubs, youth mentoring schemes, workplace health checks, and employer engagement programmes. These will run alongside wider regional efforts such as wage subsidies and primary care interventions.
All projects are scheduled for completion within the 2025/26 financial year, with the Council placing strong emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and measurable outcomes. A formal report on the funding will be presented at a joint councillor decision session on 5 August.