The UK Government's decision to rejoin the Erasmus+ exchange programme from 2027 has been welcomed in West Lothian, with the Livingston MP describing the move as a significant boost for young people, educational establishments and community organisations across the area.
Local opportunities for study, training and exchanges
The national re-entry into Erasmus+ is accompanied by a £570 million investment from the UK Labour Government. That funding will enable local schools, colleges, universities, youth groups and sports clubs to apply for support for international exchanges, collaborative projects and professional development schemes.
- Who can benefit: school pupils, college and university students, apprentices, volunteers and adult learners.
- Staff development: teachers, lecturers and youth workers will be able to access new professional development opportunities abroad.
- Inclusion support: extra financial assistance will target participants from disadvantaged backgrounds.
MP response and local implications
Gregor Poynton MP has praised the government's move, arguing it will open doors for young people in the Livingston constituency and wider West Lothian. He emphasised the experience-building and employability benefits that overseas study, volunteering and work placements can bring.
"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," said Gregor Poynton MP.
The return to Erasmus+ restores a channel of funding and partnership that many local institutions relied upon prior to the UK's departure from the EU. For West Lothian organisations that are accustomed to running exchange programmes or forging international partnerships, the announcement signals an opportunity to rebuild and expand those links.
Practical next steps for West Lothian organisations
Poynton has urged local educational and community bodies to begin preparations so they are ready to apply for funding when the programme reopens next year. That advance planning could include reviewing partnership opportunities, identifying candidate pupils or staff, and building project proposals that meet Erasmus+ criteria.
| Area | Expected benefit |
|---|---|
| Students and apprentices | Study, training and work placements overseas |
| Teachers/lecturers | Professional development and exchange |
| Disadvantaged learners | Additional financial support to increase access |
For West Lothian the announcement will be measured in future applications and partnerships. The immediate effect is to give local authorities, educational institutions and voluntary groups a clear signal to prepare for international engagement once funding rounds open in 2027.
