Dear Mayor Campbell,
Re: Exploring Opportunities partnership
As you will be aware, funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) ends on 31 March
2026.
The UKSPF has supported the Exploring Opportunities (EO) partnership (value £2.54m)
which includes 13 Hull organisations, many of whom it has been my privilege to work with and
support.
The EO is an employment programme aimed at economically inactive, unemployed, or low
skilled employed adults and young people (16+) living in Hull to support them into work, further
education or training.
However, with the end of UKSPF there needs to be continuation of funding and that is now the
responsibility of the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority (HEYCA).
I am informed that EO partners have been raising the issue of continuation funding for eight
months without a decision. This uncertainty has already led to staff being put on notice and risks
the collapse of the programme currently supporting around 900 people (94% from the most
deprived wards in the city) and the loss of almost 70 jobs.
I understand the current situation is that East Riding and Hull City Councils as members of the
HEYCA board are now in agreement on continued funding for EO, but a decision from your office
is necessary for final sign-off.
Any organisation, whether charity or business, needs financial clarity to plan ahead and renew
staff contracts. Funding decisions like this cannot be left until the last minute.
Since April 2025, EO has already supported 900 participants, including 394 NEET Young people,
with 72% progressing into employment or further learning. This is an exceptional performance
and reflects the tangible impact the programme is having for individuals and families, particularly
in Hull’s most deprived communities. I am sure the names will be familiar to you.
Humber Learning Consortium
Cat Zero
The Warren
Giroscope
Goodwin Development Trust
Probe
Unity in Community
Enviromail
Citizens Advice Hull & East Riding
Tiger’s Trust
Hull KR Foundation
Hull FC Community Foundation
CHCP (health partner).
As a constituency MP I have seen the benefits of the work EO do first hand, and I am immensely
grateful to them for the support they provide to the residents of Hull West and Haltemprice.
I would urge you to act now to safeguard jobs and vital, proven support for some of the most
vulnerable people in our region.
I look forward to your reply.
