Yep! Project Funding Extended to March 2026

£800,000 funding secured to extend Yep! Project until March 2026

A programme that’s supported over 1,250 young people with additional needs in Cornwall will now continue until 31st March 2026, thanks to £800,000 in fresh funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Known as the Yep! Project, the scheme is aimed at 16 to 24-year-olds who aren’t currently in education, employment or training. It also helps those who are at risk of falling out of these systems, with a particular focus on individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges.

New backing for proven support

Since launching in January 2024, the Yep! Project has already supported more than 1,250 young people across Cornwall. Now, with additional funding secured through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, the project will continue to run for another year.

The scheme was previously overseen by CSW Group but is now managed by Cornwall Council in partnership with Real Ideas, Pentreath, Carefree, Argyle Community Trust and Pluss. Together, they help young people build confidence, develop resilience, and gain practical skills that improve their future prospects.

“Incredibly important”

Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet member for Children, Families and Schools at Cornwall Council, said:

“It’s fantastic news that we’ve secured the money to continue this hugely successful project which has already helped so many young people across Cornwall.

As a council we strongly feel that all children and young people should feel valued and that includes those with SEND and SEMH and their families.

Projects like Yep! that help give young people the confidence and resilience to achieve their full potential are incredibly important. They help create a bright future and I hope the Yep! Project continues to change lives across Cornwall.”

Janine Bisson, Inclusion and Participation Lead for Cornwall Council, added:

“I am delighted that this project will continue to support significant numbers of young people, giving them the chance to engage with education and employment opportunities across our communities.”

Want to find out more?

The Yep! Project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by Cornwall Council through the Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.

For more details or to speak with someone about getting involved, visit the Yep! Project page or call the team on 01872 324602.