Published: 12/09/2019
A NEW subsidy is being made available to businesses in Copeland to help develop their workforce.
Small-sized employers in the borough can now access a contribution of up to £2,500 towards wages and training costs of taking on a new recruit.
Copeland Work and Skills Programme – led by Copeland Council and funded by Copeland Community Fund and Sellafield Ltd – has launched the subsidy to encourage firms to support individuals into employment.
Companies employing fewer than 50 staff can qualify for a subsidy, which will be granted to businesses who offer the new recruit a minimum of 16 hours’ employment per week.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “This is a win-win situation. Local people get a foot on the career ladder while receiving mentoring and support, and businesses can support a young person into employment while having their costs subsidised.”
The scheme aims to increase employment across a wide range of occupations, including skilled trades; sales and customer service; care; leisure and tourism; administrative and secretarial; process, plant and machine operatives.
Workplace and mentoring support will be provided by Cumbria County Council, and individuals will be referred to the programme by the Department for Work and Pensions and other partners.
Employers who would like to find out further details about the subsidy can attend a drop-in session at Millom Hub, Salthouse Road, on Thursday, September 26 between noon and 5pm.
Alternatively, contact Chris Pickles, Copeland Work & Skills Programme Officer, on 01946 598326 or chris.pickles@copeland.gov.uk.
