MP welcomes return of Erasmus+ as major boost for young people in West Lothian
Gregor Poynton MP has warmly welcomed the UK Labour Government's decision to rejoin the Erasmus+ programme from 2027, describing it as a “brilliant opportunity" for young people, students and organisations across the Livingston constituency, West Lothian and Scotland.
The UK will rejoin the European Union's flagship education, training, youth and sport exchange programme next year, backed by a £570 million UK Labour Government investment. The move will once again allow schools, colleges, universities, youth organisations and sports clubs to access funding for international exchanges, partnerships and professional development.
Young people, including school pupils, college and university students, apprentices, volunteers and adult learners, will be able to access opportunities to study, train, volunteer and gain work experience overseas, while teachers, lecturers and youth workers will benefit from new professional development opportunities.
The programme also includes additional financial support for participants from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to ensure that opportunities are available regardless of a young person's circumstances.
Welcoming the announcement, Gregor said: "I'm delighted that the UK is rejoining Erasmus+. This is brilliant news for young people here in West Lothian and for the schools, colleges, universities and community organisations that help them reach their potential.
"Erasmus+ has transformed the lives of countless young people by giving them the chance to study, train, volunteer and work abroad. Those experiences build confidence, develop new skills, improve employability and open doors that many young people might never have imagined possible.
"I'm particularly pleased that this programme includes extra support for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't always, and this investment will help ensure that a young person's future isn't determined by their postcode or family income.
"I would encourage schools, colleges, youth organisations and sports clubs across West Lothian to start preparing now so they are ready to make the most of the funding and opportunities available when applications open."
Gregor said he would be encouraging education providers and youth organisations across the constituency to engage with the programme and explore partnerships that will allow more local young people to benefit from international learning and exchange opportunities.
The first funding round is expected to open in November, with the British Council acting as the UK's National Agency for Erasmus+, supporting organisations to apply and participate in the programme.