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Economic Development

South West employers urged to take cash incentive for apprenticeships

Mayor Tim Bowles said that the schemes are vital to kickstart the post pandemic economy

West of England mayor Tim Bowles (Image: Barbara Evripidou)

Regional Mayor Tim Bowles has urged employers of all sizes across the West of England to sign up to two new schemes that have been launched by the Government to help get people into jobs following the Coronavirus pandemic.

Cash incentives are now available to businesses to help them take on new apprentices, and the new £2bn Kickstarter scheme will ensure young people at risk of long-term unemployment can access jobs and work experience thanks to funding support to employers from the Government.

And it echoes calls in .

The schemes, announced by the Chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of the support the West of England’s Mayors own plan for the region’s recovery.

They will form part of the package of measures promoted through the West of England Growth Hub and through Future Bright advisors to help residents get back into jobs, start careers and to help businesses get back on their feet after the coronavirus outbreak.

West of England Mayor Tim Bowles, said: “As we get the West of England’s economy moving again after coronavirus, getting people in to jobs and helping them start rewarding careers is more important than ever. That’s why I’ve put it at the centre of my plan for our region’s recovery and these new schemes from the Government will help boost the package of measures I’ve already announced.

“Our region has always had a strong economy and as we build it back up again we must make sure that everyone shares in the recovery, particularly our young people. That’s why schemes like Kickstarter are so vital to create jobs and give young people the skills to access them."

Under the apprenticeships scheme, employers are being offered £2,000 for each new apprentice they hire aged under 25 and £1,500 for each newly-recruited apprentice aged 25 and over. The cash boost is designed to support employers to cover the cost of recruiting an apprentice such as providing facilities or uniforms, helping with travel costs or helping to pay their salary.