Published: 13/03/2017
A GROWING Copeland business has been able to take on two apprentices through the Copeland Work & Skills Partnership.
Horse and Husky, a Bootle firm offering horse riding and husky-pulled carts, benefited from the first employer subsidies made available through this current programme of the W&SP.
The Partnership has ten apprentice subsidies to distribute in total. Horse and Husky apprentices Rob Mason and Charlie Crayston will undertake level 2 qualifications in Business Administration and Customer Service.
The apprentice subsidies are an important part of Copeland’s Work and Skills Programme which started in June 2016. these subsidies are targeted at the Millom and Cleator Moor areas. The aim is to encourage employers to support people aged 18-24 into employment. Companies employing fewer than 50 staff can qualify for a subsidy.
Copeland's deputy mayor and portfolio holder for economic growth, Coun Lena Hogg, said: “This is yet another example of the Work and Skills partnership making real and useful differences to the economy in our area. Not only does the employer get a subsidy to help make taking on an apprentice easier and more attractive, the job seeker gets a real step on the ladder - skills, experience, a wage and recognised qualifications at the end of it."
The apprentice subsidies are part of an overall programme of activities being delivered by the Copeland Work & Skills Partnership. Copeland Community Fund is funding the partnership’s skills activities, while Copeland Borough Council pays for a staff member for three years to devise and deliver them.
The Horse and Husky apprentices will undertake tasks such as: support the running of the business and its marketing as well as assisting with the outdoor activities.
The partners in the Copeland Work and Skills Partnership are: Copeland Borough Council, Citizens' Advice Bureau, Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Council for Voluntary Service, the Department for Work and Pensions, Gen2, Home Group, Home to Work/Works 4 You Ltd, Howgill Children’s and Family Centre, Impact Housing, Inspira, Lakes College, Millom Network Centre, Phoenix Enterprise Centre and West Cumbria Works.
Employers based in the areas surrounding Millom and Cleator Moor who are interested in creating an apprenticeship opportunity for young people should contact Copeland’s Work & Skills Programme Officer, Chris Pickles, on 01946 598326 or at Chris.Pickles@copeland.gov.uk.
