BARNSLEY Council have helped 55 people into work through the Pathways to Work scheme and are working on how to support unemployed residents even further although there’s yet to be confirmed funding past next year.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that Barnsley’s unemployment rate stands at just 2.8 per cent.

This was lower than the average across Yorkshire and the Humber where four per cent of adults able to work were unemployed, and slightly below the UK unemployment rate of four per cent.

In Barnsley, 120,371 just over 75 per cent of working-age people were in employment in the year to June.

The ONS said the statistics should be treated with caution as it continues to overhaul its labour market survey.

It comes after a £338m investment into its Connect to Work programme which will deliver localised and tailored support to get people back into work, which was made in Barnsley, was launched.

South Yorkshire is set to receive up to £35.3m of that funding to help get almost 10,000 people back into work.

The scheme provides intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.

Former Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall visited the town last July to hear about the project and it has since been rolled out across the entire country meaning the town is playing a vital role in getting people back into work.

A report, which will be discussed by councillors next week, states a total of 55 people have been helped into employment so far.

It said: “As of end of October 2025, we have engaged and are supporting 552 economically inactive residents in Barnsley, including helping 55 individuals to secure work.

“The Barnsley Pathways to Work programme continues to build positive momentum as of October 2025, with sustained growth in participant enrolment and job registrations.

“The programme is successfully supporting unemployed residents into secure employment with reputable local employers, while also recognising the ongoing need to refine strategies for activating employment among economically inactive groups particularly those with health issues, who remain over represented compared to regional averages.”

However, the council admit there are challenges with the scheme moving forward as there has yet to be any confirmation regarding funding past next year.

The report added: “Government confirmed the continuation of funding for year two of the trailblazer as part of the spring funding review.

“This package of funding is ‘one-off’ in nature and therefore there is no guarantee of longer-term funding, at this stage.

“There is no confirmed funding for year three and four of the trailblazer.

“This may limit the impact of the council’s services for residents as well as the extent of the system change we are undertaking.

“The council are lobbying with government to get a continuation of funding but are also ensuring we are prepared if funding is not forthcoming for smooth changes that will not impact the quality of services for residents.”

Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, told the Chronicle: “Barnsley’s Pathways to Work is going from strength to strength. Right now, 952 people are actively involved, and another 497 are ready to start their journey with us.

“Our ambition is to help local people secure jobs with great employers. We know life doesn’t always fit neatly around a job, especially for those with health conditions, caring responsibilities, young people aged 16 to 24, and vulnerable groups. These are the people who need us most, and we’re here to make sure they get every chance to thrive.

“Our new website: pathways-to-work.co.uk makes it easy to sign up for support online, by phone or email. We offer everything from skills training and job search support to wraparound services like housing advice, childcare and financial guidance.

“Looking ahead, we want to make sure people find work that fits around real life. Whether it’s parents juggling the school run or someone managing a health condition, the right workplace support can make all the difference.

“That’s why we’re keen to work closely with local employers. We want to build partnerships that open doors to flexible shift patterns, work placements, and careers talks practical steps that help people feel ready and confident about the world of work.”