SMMT launches support scheme for apprentices

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Charitable Trust Fund has launched a new programme to safeguard the jobs of apprentices working in the sector.

Its Apprentice Support Programme earmarks £100,000 to cover all or part of the salaries of apprentices currently employed by small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) within the UK automotive industry, but whose positions are at risk of redundancy due to Covid-19 related business pressures.

There are currently some 59,000 young people employed in apprenticeship positions across the sector.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said:“The UK Automotive industry is built on decades of craftsmanship, engineering excellence and innovation delivered by a highly skilled workforce – and its long-term recovery and growth will depend on retaining and developing this skills base. That’s why it’s so important that we do everything possible to ensure that we don’t let young talent slip through our hands as we strive to overcome the current crisis. Today’s apprentices are tomorrow’s leaders, and this scheme will help protect their jobs now so that they can help drive our future success.”

Gareth Jones, chairman of the SMMT Charitable Trust Fund, said: “As a former technical apprentice myself I can only imagine the devastating impact of losing your apprenticeship, particularly if you are close to completing your qualification. This timely and much needed initiative from the STCF will provide critical and well targeted support to ensure we retain some fantastic talent and potential in our industry.”

The scheme will cover salaries either in full or in part for up to a year.

Full details and criteria for applying are available on the SMMT website.