The Liverpool City Region Employment and Skills Board has today launched a major new fund for businesses wanting to create apprenticeship opportunities for young people in the region, supported by funding from the National Apprenticeship Service and European Social Fund.
The Employment and Skills Board (part of the Local Enterprise Partnership) has secured funding to offer up to £3,000 per new apprentice recruited. This will be used to help address long-term youth unemployment, enhance the skills of young people in the region, as well as providing financial assistance to businesses wanting to support young people aged 16-24 through apprenticeships.
To be eligible for this assistance, a business has to employ less than 1,000 people and not have employed an apprentice in the last 12 months. Businesses can apply for up to 10 apprentices, making the total funding available up to £30,000.
The first phase of funding for 400 apprentices has now been released. If successful, further funding may be made available.
Councillor Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said “As a City Region, we understand the value apprenticeships can bring which is why we are doing everything possible to encourage and support employers who can offer this opportunity to our young people, as well as supporting the growth of their business.”
“Such an investment is a welcome boost to our region. I hope businesses take advantage of the funding, as well as the wealth of enthusiasm and talent we have here in Liverpool City Region.”
Richard Else, Chair of the Employment and Skills Board and Operations Director at Jaguar Land Rover, Halewood added “As a business we have benefited from employing thousands of apprentices and it has become an integral part of both our recruitment and workforce development strategy.”
“These are tough times for many businesses in the region and for local young people so this investment can only help. Our apprentices are part of our success and I would urge any business in any sector looking to bring in new talent to seriously consider whether an apprentice is right for you.”
Stephen Roberts Chair of the Employer Coalition and General Manager of the Crowne Plaza added “Through recruiting apprentices myself, I can really see the value they bring to organisations and how this investment will help businesses create new opportunities. Thanks to the support of Knowsley Council and the Liverpool City Region, we are committed to working with Government to create more opportunities for young people and delivering skills for growth.”
To find more about the Liverpool City Region Apprenticeship Fund, and how you can apply, contact the Liverpool City Region Team on 0151 443 2219
