Free support is on offer to employers to help them create inclusive job opportunities.
York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has launched a £1.1 million Employer Support Programme, offering a range of support options across the region.
Seven expert organisations have been commissioned to provide support in areas identified by the region’s employers. This includes HR and occupational health support, mental and physical health issues in the workplace, changes to whole workplace culture, leadership support and help with neurodiversity in the workplace. Tailored, flexible support, such as workshops and one-to-one meetings, will be offered, as requested by businesses.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “We are tackling the barriers that hold thousands of people back from the quality jobs they deserve.
“We’re giving our businesses the tools they need to create a more supportive place to work, benefitting communities right across York and North Yorkshire.”
Flying Futures CIC is among the providers. Jack Barnes, Operations Manager, said: “We’re excited to play a part in unlocking potential across the region and creating environments where everyone has the opportunity, support and encouragement to succeed.
“Through our Employ-Ability offer, we’re proud to provide two dynamic pathways. For employers, we deliver tailored support to build inclusive, neurodiversity-aware workplaces where people and businesses can thrive. For individuals, our Readiness for Self-Employment training gives neurodiverse people the confidence, skills and insight to transform their passions into their profession.”
The Employer Support Programme is part of the Get Britain Working Economic Inactivity Trailblazer, also led by the Combined Authority.
In the first year, the trailblazer in York and North Yorkshire aims to help 1,500 people seeking work, 500 people already in work who need support and 150 businesses.
Using funding from the Department for Work and Pensions, the trailblazer’s three aims are to: engage and support people out of work due to ill health, work with employers to help them provide good work opportunities and develop ways in which networks of systems and services can be joined up.
For links to Employer Support Programme providers, visit our webpage here.
Published on Thursday 4 December 2025