BUSINESSES can get payments of £500 for anyone starting an apprenticeship or training course as part of Malvern Hills District Council’s Upskilling Bursary Scheme.
The programme has been brought back by the authority, following on from the successful apprentice bursaries previously delivered in 2022, as part of the Community Renewal Fund project.
The aim of the scheme is to encourage the take up of apprenticeships and trainee programmes, which help many people take their first steps in the world of work or embark on new careers.
New apprentices or trainees of any age are eligible to receive a payment of up to £500 if they meet the criteria.
The payment will help cover the cost of travel, equipment, tools and clothing necessary to access training. The cash can also be used towards the cost of travel equipment such as purchase of a bicycle or e-bike, if cycling to work.
To qualify, the applicant must live in the Malvern Hills District, earn less than £220 (before deductions), attend a qualifying course and be employed for 12 months or however long it takes to complete the course (whichever is longer).
They must also be completing Ofqual registered training or approved Apprenticeship Standard Framework which leads to a nationally recognised qualification and be employed for more than 30 hours per week.
The bursaries will be administered via Worcestershire Apprenticeships on behalf of Malvern Hills District Council.
Coun Beverley Nielsen, Malvern Hills District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “We are so pleased to bring this scheme back, the cost of travel or equipment can be a struggle for apprentices, which may prevent them from applying for certain jobs.
“To be able to provide help with this really can make a difference.”
Email [email protected] or visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/grants for more information.
