Southampton apprenticeships soar (Southampton Liberal Democrats)

Southampton Liberal Democrats <info@southampton-libdems.org.uk>

Southampton apprenticeships soar

February 7, 2012 2:34 PM
By Southampton Liberal Democrats

Cllr Adrian Vinson - Council Leader Lib Dem Economic Development spokesperson, Cllr Adrian Vinson writes: "In Southampton1,650 learners took on an apprenticeship in 2010/11, an increase of 72% over the previous year. Nationally, apprenticeships have reached record highs in 2010/11, thanks to Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government.

"Liberal Democrats are determined to tackle youth unemployment and get our economy back on track. Apprenticeships give people the skills and experience needed to succeed on the job market and create the skills necessary in the

workforce for sustainable growth. Liberal Democrats have long called for a significant increase in apprenticeships and Lib Dem Business Secretary, Vince Cable, has made this a priority."

To support more employers, especially small businesses, to take on apprentices, the Coalition Government this week announced a number of measures, including: Offering employers with up to 50 employees an incentive

payment of £1,500 to take on apprentices aged 16-24, Streamlining processes so that it takes just a month for an employer to advertise for an apprentice, Ensuring that the National Apprenticeship Service supports the needs of small employers through more effectively targeted advice and guidance and helping training providers work more effectively with local Small and Medium Enterprises.