Fife Council remains focused on helping people across the region access training, skills and good‑quality jobs, with the approval of the Opportunities Fife Partnership’s Employability Pathway Commissioning Framework for 2026/27.

At today’s (Thursday) Cabinet Committee meeting, members endorsed a focused and forward‑looking delivery model that ensures residents continue to benefit from a stable, well‑coordinated employability pathway. The plan builds on Fife’s long‑standing dedication to supporting people into work and improving life chances across all communities.

The agreed approach will invest over £5.8 million in a core programme of employability support over the coming year. This includes commitment to activity delivered by Fife Council's own Employability Service, representing 40% of the total investment, which will continue to underpin the pathway and provide consistent support for those seeking to enter or progress in the labour market. The approach also recognises the impact and value that third sector partners bring to the local employability ecosystem, with 60% of the available No-One Left Behind budget directed to supporting third sector provision.

The Opportunities Fife Partnership has shaped the commissioning framework to ensure that the funding available delivers maximum benefit for local people. The model prioritises:

• a reliable and fully connected employability pathway
• continuity of access to tailored support for young people, adults and families
• specialist and community‑based provision where it makes the greatest difference
• a strong partnership approach with local organisations and the third sector

This means that key programmes, such as EASYP, Positive Pathways, Fife Job Contract, Sector‑Based Skills Academies, and the Turnaround programme, will continue to offer high‑quality, person‑centred support across Fife.

Cllr Altany Craik, spokesperson for finance, economy and strategic planning said: “This commissioning plan demonstrates our unwavering commitment to helping people in Fife access the opportunities, skills and support they need to progress towards employment. By focusing our resources where they have the greatest impact, we are ensuring that communities across Fife continue to benefit from a strong, stable and inclusive employability pathway.”

The approach has been informed by local area priorities, input from people with lived experience, and alignment with wider strategies including Plan4Fife, the Fife Economic Strategy and the No One Left Behind Employability Plan. These insights ensure that investment is directed to the areas and communities where it will have the most meaningful effect.

Cllr Craik added: “While there is less government funding available for next year, Fife Council and the Opportunities Fife Partnership are focused on ensuring that every person who needs employability support can access high‑quality services. This framework strengthens our approach, providing a clear and coordinated pathway that works for individuals, families and employers.”

Commissioning activity will now progress to ensure seamless delivery from April 2026. The Opportunities Fife Partnership will continue to provide strategic oversight, ensuring services remain responsive to community needs and focused on helping people into fair and sustainable work.