The document outlines the history and development of the ESF projects delivered by Westward Pathfinder from 1994 to the present, focusing on training and skills development for unemployed individuals. It details various project phases, funding sources, and bureaucratic challenges including extensive paperwork and audit requirements. The current status indicates the operation of seven ESF projects under a new contracting model, highlighting the ongoing commitment to supporting disadvantaged communities.

1. ESF Project Management

2. Brief History of Westward Pathfinder’s
ESF delivery
1994 – 3 year ESF project to train unemployed people in Ilfracombe
in IT skills
1995 - new ESF project delivering e-learning via video conferencing

3. Brief History of Westward Pathfinder’s
ESF delivery
1995 to 2003
Several ESF funded projects delivering skills training to
disadvantaged. Lead with up to six partners
2004 to 2012
8 further ESF projects for SFA
2 ESF projects for DWP
9 ESF projects sub contracted
2013 to Present
Currently running 7 ESF projects sub contracted

4. ESF Direct Contracting
1994 to 2003
EU
WP
£ Controls

5. Co Financing Model
2004 to 2012
EU
WP
£
SFA/DWP
Controls
Controls£

6. Prime Contractor Model
2012 to Present
EU
WP
£
Controls
SFA/DWP
Controls
Controls
Prime
£
£

7. ESF Bureaucracy
Guidance:
- 221 pages
Start paperwork:
– 24 pages, 14 signatures
On programme paperwork:
– Registers signed every visit
- Progress reviews completed and signed
Exit paperwork:
- More paperwork and more signatures!

8. ESF Bureaucracy
Full records of eligible expenditure
Defrayed expenditure only (cash flow
problems!)
Audit at any time
Records to be kept for 20 years

9. George Curry gcurry@westwardpathfinder.org.uk
www.westwardpathfinder.org.uk

10. George Curry gcurry@westwardpathfinder.org.uk
www.westwardpathfinder.org.uk