FUNDING, FACTS AND HOW SMBC IS HELPING LOCAL EMPLOYERS

Stockport Council is helping local employers and last month hosted an employer engagement event – “Funding, Facts and Fighting the Fog” – where 40 local employers attended including Business Computer Projects Ltd, Bowker Sadler Partnership Ltd, R.M.C. Qualities Management and Capita.

Left: Stockport Council hosted an employer engagement event – Funding, Facts and Fighting the Fog

The aim of the event was to help employers find out how Apprenticeships can be a great training route for employees aged 16 – 64 and for existing members of the workforce. Benefits of Apprenticeships include:

• Up to £5,000 in grants per new employee (subject to eligibility).
• Efficiencies in staff training costs.
• Increased capacity for innovation within your company.
• Highly motivated staff, reduced absenteeism and improved staff retention.
• Help to combat an aging workforce and avoid skills shortages
• Consumers prefer firms that employ apprentices.

Employers were also given information about how they can provide help to local schools and colleges, and how the changes resulting from the Greater Manchester devolution may affect their business.

Local employer Andy Carr from Sky Flair ltd commented:

“The event was very informative and provided clear direction on how to proceed with getting an apprentice for our business.”

Councillor Shan Alexander, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Achievement, said:

“Events like these are an excellent way for local employers to find out what support and grants are available from the Council, and other organisations, to help their business grow. I encourage employers to take full advantage of the opportunities.”

If you are interested in obtaining information on how to get an apprentice for your business or the wage incentives available, please contact the Apprenticeships Store at Stockport Council on 0161 474 4745 or 0161 474 2350 or email apprenticeships@stockport.gov.uk