Government announces apprentice cash boost to support employers

Employers of all sizes are being invited to apply for generous cash incentives to help them take on new apprentices and get more people into work, Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan has announced.

According to Ms Keegan, apprenticeships are a great way to get ahead in a wide range of exciting industries, and they will also play a vital role in delivering the skills employers and the economy need to recover after the coronavirus outbreak.

As part of the government’s plan for jobs, 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. This includes taking on an apprentice who has been made redundant.

The cash boost is designed to support employers to cover the cost of recruiting an apprentice such as providing facilities, uniforms, helping with travel costs or to help pay their salary.

Employers who want to take advantage of the offer can apply through the government’s digital apprenticeship service.

"We recognise the huge impact coronavirus has had on individuals and businesses up and down the country," said Ms Keegan.

"Through our plan for jobs we have taken unprecedented steps to protect, support and create jobs, including driving more high quality apprenticeship opportunities to help get our economy moving."

According to the government, this new cash incentive for employers is on top of the existing £1,000 payment for new 16-18 year-old apprentices, and those aged under 25 with an Education, Health and Care Plan.

"Apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing the skills people need, particularly young people, as they seek work in these challenging times," said the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

"I urge every employer, big or small, national or local, to sign up to our offer and support apprentices as we continue our economic recovery. Our Plan for Jobs will create, support and protect jobs across all regions of the UK, and ensure our economy is fit for the future."