by Rachael Warner
Youth Advocate – Talent Match
I’ve been out and about networking this week, attending the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast on 10th March and will be at another on 12th March at Momentum Café, being run by the Job Centre. Both are promoting apprenticeships and working to encourage employers to explore apprenticeships more to build their future workforce.
You may not be aware but this week is National Apprenticeship week. With the elections coming up and unemployment being a huge concern for all of the political parties, particularly unemployment of 16-24 year olds, this week has never been more relevant. And boy are things changing! With the Trailblazers scheme in full swing, adapting and developing apprenticeships around the needs of employers, apprenticeship provision is on the rise.
Apprenticeships can be offered in any line of work and in any sector; from the well-known hairdressing, construction and business admin to legal services, marketing and sports. Whatever the industry, any employer can take on apprentices. This was the topic at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Networking event this week (10th March), where we heard about how great it is to take on apprentices. Suffolk Norse have an excellent apprenticeship programme and passed comment on the vibrancy of the apprentices they have, the energy they bring to the company and the fresh perspective they have to a line of work. With them they bring new ideas which they’re keen to share.
Want to take on an apprentice? What’s stopping you?
Suffolk County Council has a range of services available to provide you with all the advice and guidance you may need, from the types of role you may want to recruit to the funding you can receive. They also have over 500 young people registered with them and can offer an apprentice matching service to help you every step of the way. Visit the apprenticeships website for further information, or give them a call on 01473 260 922.
But wait! There’s more… Looking to grow and develop your business? Wanting to develop and train your staff? Look no further. Suffolk Chamber of Commerce have launched ETIP: Employer Training Incentive Pilot. The scheme offers SMEs 25% cash back on additional training provided to staff. For further information, visit the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce website or contact the team on 01473 680 600.
And, of course, Talent Match is still here, supporting young people aged 18-24 who have been out of work or education for the past year or more. If you know someone who may benefit from this support or can help support young people into work by offering work experience or training, please get in touch. We’d be happy to hear from you!
by Rachael Warner
Youth Advocate – Talent Match
[email protected]
01473 345357