Firms urged to back Walsall apprentice scheme

THE boss of a training provision firm has called on Walsall employers to take advantage of a scheme that allows them to claim up to £3,000 for every local apprentice they take on.

Geoff Jones, director at Aldridge-based In-Comm Training and Business Services, believes companies are missing out on a golden opportunity to solve their long-term skills shortage by making the most of Walsall Council’s ‘Walsall Works’ project.

Firms in the borough are being offered wage subsidies to help encourage them to invest in young people, with 550 places up for grabs covering careers such as business admin, customer service, engineering, IT and warehouse and storage.

In-Comm, which is one of a small number of providers accredited to deliver the programme, has already placed one young person with a local manufacturer and is currently processing 20 further applications.

“This really is just the start,” said Jones, who runs the company with fellow director Colin Mills.

“A lot of local businesses are faced with the issue of skills shortages and an ageing workforce and many, if questioned, would like to take an apprentice on.”

“With uncertainty rife, the additional financial strain might prevent them from going through with it. This wage subsidy from Walsall Council helps to take some of this pressure away and when firms know about it they can’t wait to get involved.

“It’s a win-win as it reduces youth unemployment locally and employers get a member of staff they can develop.”