4 July 2006 - Publication of DWP research report 359: evaluation of ESF objective 3 co-financing in England
New research published today by the Department for Work and Pensions examines the impact of the ESF Objective 3 co-financing (CFO) regime in England in terms of delivery standards, beneficiary participation, quality of outputs and strategic approach.
The Objective 3 co-financing approach was introduced in September 2001 and brought ESF and match funding together into a single funding stream. The intention was to reduce bureaucracy on providers and promote a more co-ordinated and targeted approach to Objective 3 provision.
The main findings of the research are:
- The implementation of co-financing has developed since previous studies in 2001 and 2003, with increased levels of CFO activity. In the view of many providers and stakeholders CFOs have become more effective, but views vary considerably. The report considers that the standard of ESF delivery under co-financing has been at least maintained or raised in the study areas.
- In terms of provider access – CFOs have made considerable efforts to involve able providers from a wide range of sectors and sizes. However, smaller providers often faced challenges in applying and delivering services due to the potential risks associated with output/outcome related payments, a move towards larger scale contracts and concerns over bureaucracy.
- Beneficiary access appears to be in line with Regional Development Plans (RDPs) and recent policy directives to focus on the harder to reach. It is suggested that providers may, however, be less willing to support these beneficiaries in the 2007-2013 ESF programme due to concerns over outcome related payments.
- There is evidence that co-financing has made progress in using ESF strategically, for example, by planning both within and across-sectors.
Notes to Editors
- The research commenced in March 2005 and was based on fifteen detailed case studies of CFOs. Case studies included interviews with stakeholders and current and former providers. There was also a review of documentation and related research.
- Research Report 359 – Evaluation of ESF Objective 3 Co-financing in England is available on the DWP website and hard copies can be obtained from Paul Noakes, Room 4-26, The Adelphi, 1-11 John Adam Street, London WC2N 6HT.
DWP Press office: 020 7238 0749
Out of hours: 07659 108 883
Public enquiries: 020 7712 2171
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5
Prepared by: the Department for Work and Pensions Work Welfare and Equality Directorate