Widening Participation

Widening Participation is the descriptor for the programme of activity taking place in England to address the Extending Participation agenda.

The terminology stems from The Widening Participation in Learning Strategy Unit (WPSU) for England, which became part of Skills for Health in September 2007.

The variety of programmes undertaken within the Widening Participation initiative has resulted in increased benefits for Extending Participation.

Whilst these programmes take place exclusively in England, they are adaptable for use across the UK. 

The work undertaken by the Widening Participation team helps inform collaboration with partners and stakeholders in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales – ultimately leading to the development of local business plans and programmes of activity for each of the four nations.