03/15/2021

The Welsh Government has invested a further £18.7m to support businesses in recruiting apprentices in Wales.

“It’s great to see continued investment from the Welsh government in supporting apprenticeships to create a skilled and flexible workforce. We at Itec are committed to supporting employers to take advantage of this opportunity to grow and invest in its people for the good of its business and the Welsh economy”.
– James Manners, Head of Apprenticeships at Itec

The Employer Incentive Scheme will now run until the 30th of September and is a key part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to support businesses and workers in recovering from the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic.

Launched in August 2020, the incentives have already seen more than 1,300 new apprentices recruited. The extension and further investment will mean that businesses will be able to claim up to £4,000 for each new apprentice they hire under the age of 25.

This £4,000 incentive will be available to businesses that are employing an apprentice aged 16-24 for at least 30 hours per week. Welsh businesses could also receive £2,000 for each new under 25 year old apprentice they employ for less than 30 hours a week, which is an increase of £500.

For apprentices aged 25 and over, businesses can access £2,000 for each new apprentice they hire on a 30 hour or more contract, and a £1,000 incentive for apprentices working less than 30 hours.

Dedicated funding is also available to recruit disabled people and for workers who lost a previous apprenticeship position because of coronavirus.

The Welsh Government’s new ‘We’re in Your Corner’ campaign, which launched last week, also encourages firms the length and breadth of Wales to take advantage of recruitment and skills support for new and existing employees available via the Skills Gateway for Business.

If you would like to find out more about the incentives available for hiring an apprentice, or simply interested in knowing more about the training and apprenticeship routes we offer, get in touch with our business development team today by either contacting us here or calling 02920 663800.