In October, the Commission released a legislative proposal on cohesion funds. One of the programmes included was the European Social Fund, that will receive at least €84 billion. Local and regional organisations should be able to use these funds to promote healthy and active ageing, reduce health inequalities, and training for health professionals. EPHA has produced a briefing for members on the proposal.
The European Social Fund aims to improve employment opportunities, promote education and life-long learning, enhance social inclusion, contribute to combating poverty and develop institutional capacity of public administration. It is the key EU instrument for investment in people.
There will be a minimum share of the budget corresponding to at least €84 billion for the ESF, (compared to the current €75 billion). In addition, a minimum share of 20% of the ESF will be dedicated to social inclusion actions.
One of the implications for the health workforce, which was included in the “New Skills for New Jobs” agenda proposal is the training and mobility of health professionals.
Currently, there is no specific reference, but the draft regulation states: “The ESF shall promote high levels of employment and job quality, support the geographical and occupational mobility of workers, facilitate their adaptation to change, encourage a high level of education and training, promote gender equality, equal opportunities and non-discrimination, enhance social inclusion and combat poverty, thereby contributing to the priorities of the European Union as regards strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion.”
The participation of social partners and civil society, in particular Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), is to be encouraged in the implementation of the ESF. The Commission envisages NGO involvement in capacity building, the promotion of community-led local development strategies and the simplification of the delivery system. Rules governing the reimbursement of projects by the ESF will be simplified, in particular for “small” beneficiaries – NGO’s.
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