Jack Brereton MP has welcomed the Government’s major package of reforms to support businesses to deliver more apprenticeship places, benefitting local small businesses and young people across Stoke-on-Trent South and North Staffordshire.
Backed by £60 million of new Government funding for 2024-25, the Government will fully fund apprenticeships in small businesses from 1 April by paying the full cost of training for anyone up to the age of 21–reducing costs and burdens for businesses and delivering more opportunities for young people to kickstart their career.
The Government will also increase the amount of funding that large employers who are paying the Apprenticeship Levy can pass onto other businesses–from 25 per cent of their unused Levy to 50 per cent. Taken together, these measures are expected to enable up to 20,000 more apprenticeships, unlocking the opportunities our young people deserve.
This builds on the Government’s strong track record of creating a world-class apprenticeship system, with over 5.7 million people starting an apprenticeship since 2010.
The Government is sticking with the plan to create opportunities for young people while supporting small businesses, building a brighter future where everyone can fulfil their potential.
Commenting, Jack Brereton MP said:
“Since the Conservatives came into office in 2010, we have already seen 3,650 young people in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire start an apprenticeship, meaning thousands more young people have gained the skills they need to secure good jobs.”
“I have been continuously pushing for the Government to fully fund apprenticeships in small businesses and increase the amount of funding that large employers who are paying the Apprenticeship Levy can pass onto other businesses. I fully welcome this announcement and am very pleased to see that the Government has listened.”
“The announcement will support thousands more people in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire to fulfil their potential in skilled employment, while helping small businesses make the most of our fantastic local talent to help our economy flourish.”
Also commenting, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“Growing up in my mum’s pharmacy, I know first-hand how important small businesses are. Not just for the economy, but as a driver for innovation and aspiration, and as the key to building a society where hard work is always recognised and rewarded.”
“Whether it’s breaking down barriers and red tape for small businesses, helping businesses hire more young people into apprenticeships and skilled jobs or empowering women to start up their own businesses–this government is sticking to the plan and leaving no stone unturned to make the UK the best place to do business.”
“Taken together, these measures will unlock a tidal wave of opportunity and make a real difference to businesses and entrepreneurs across the country.”
