Home Page The Adult and Community Learning Fund was launched by the Government in 1998 as part of its strategy to widen participation in learning and improve standards of basic skills. The Fund makes the important connection between learning and social regeneration. While the economic benefits of learning are acknowledged, learning also helps to promote active citizenship, to strengthen the family and the neighbourhood. The Fund has supported community-based organisations to develop and sustain innovative adult learning projects, aimed at adults who do not normally participate in education and training. Often these organisations work with traditional providers. The provision of 'first rung' and informal learning, delivered in familiar local surroundings, has proved to be effective in engaging a range of disadvantaged or marginalised adults. It is managed jointly on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) and the Basic Skills Agency (BSA). As a result of the Fund, around 600 large and small projects have received funds ranging from a few hundred pounds to over £100,000. For the latest on what will happen to the Fund after March 2004, please visit the news page.

Click here to go to Lifelong Learning or the DFES Website. Updated on the 28th April 2004.