More evidence of the growing support for apprenticeships at the top level of government emerged in the lead up to the Chancellor’s Budget earlier today (3 Mar).
In efforts to further stimulate employers, particularly SMEs, to take on new apprentices, government payments are becoming more generous, doubling from £1,500 to £3,000 per adult apprentice hire.
Previously, 16–24-year-old apprentice hires attracted a £2,000 payment and over 24’s £1,500. From April to September 2021 businesses hiring an apprentice of any age will now be eligible for £3,000.
Additionally, the pre-existing £1,000 incentive for 16–18-year-old apprentice hires will remain in place, meaning that eligible employers will now receive a total of £4,000 from government.
Apprenticeships are seen as a foundational platform for business to embed new talent and retrain existing staff to ensure a workforce skilled for the challenges ahead as we build back better.
With all hands to the pump required as we emerge from our enforced winter of hibernation, an apprentice could be that key ingredient that helps propel your business forward.
With average time to hire and onboarding taking up to 12 weeks, if you’re interested in moving forward with an apprentice hire, we would urge you to start the ball rolling now.
As our next cohort of school leavers emerge from their GCSEs and A levels in June, having shown the most incredible resilience and adaptability in a year like no other, a role in your business will mean they can put their energies and determination to productive use and collectively we can help each other get our region and nation in optimum condition for the future.
Get in touch with our team of Business Skills Advisors at Business West on skills@businesswest.co.uk and we can guide you to resources and partner organisations who can help right now.
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