Include-IT Mersey evaluation highlights the crucial role of the VCFSE sector in supporting people into employment
Since 2017 Include-IT Mersey has been providing support to digitally excluded and workless people across Liverpool City Region. The project, led by Sefton CVS in collaboration with VOLA and 22 VCFSE organisations, supports people to develop essential IT skills to move into or closer to work, helping those furthest from employment become more job ready.
A newly published report has evaluated the delivery of the project over its six years of operation and brings to light the significant achievements of the project in supporting people on their journey to become work ready and the importance of the VCFSE sector in developing the regional labour market.
Key achievements include:
· Over 1,000 people supporting to move into employment, education/training, or active job search exceeding targets by 15%
· 97% of learners were satisfied with the project
· 93% of learners report that their digital skills have improved
· 72% use the internet more to find jobs and training opportunities
· 71% reported going online more to contact their GP or access health services
Overall, the project is judged to have been highly effective in achieving its desired outcomes, even with the COVID-19 pandemic, with an estimated social return on investment of £2.30 for every £1 spent.
In addition to these project and financial outcomes, the success of Include-IT Mersey has cemented the VCFSE sector as key providers of skills related support and community digital inclusion, with VOLA identified as the strategic partner for digital inclusion within the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the Cheshire and Merseyside Health and Care Partnership.
Whilst the project has historically been funded via European funding and National Lottery funding, an adapted programme has been awarded UK-Shared Prosperity Funding to extend its delivery for a further two years to March 2025.
For more details and to access the evaluation report, please visit the Include-IT Mersey website here: https://includeitmersey.org.uk/project-evaluation/