MP hails business forapprenticeships drive

MP's visit . . . with Jim McMahon (from left) Helen Baxter, Natalie Lawton, Dean McCann, Alan Nield, Wayne Harwood, Amy Gardiner, Alison Ogden, Stephen Callaghan and Vicki Bennett

STAFF at trade supplier Screwfix welcomed MP Jim McMahon to their Royton store and discussed the importance of supporting apprenticeships.

Mr McMahon was told the Laurel Trading Estate branch was one of more than 40 sites opened by Screwfix in 2016, which now employs more than 9,000 people across the UK.

The Royton sites has created 13 jobs and Mr McMahon met staff and customers there.

Manager Alan Nield shared feedback from trade customers and discussed issues, opportunities and challenges facing tradesmen and women.

He also said Screwfix had launched a Tradesman Manifesto campaign, highlighting the desire of small- and medium-sized trade firms to hire apprentices and calling on government support.

A Screwfix survey had suggested that many plumbers, electricians, builders, carpenters had little or no experience of taking on apprentices. Only a small ratio have taken on an apprentice in the past year.

In response, Screwfix and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills had launched a booklet offering guidance and funding advice on hiring apprentices.

Mr Neld said: "As a key supplier to tradespeople, we can help amplify their voices by getting their message across to people such as MPs

"Many of our customers are busier than ever so it's important that we work closely with the industry and the government to consider ways to help and encourage growth."

Mr McMahon MP said: "From builders and bricklayers to plumbers and electricians, tradespeople are the backbone of the economy and community. It was particularly interesting to discuss the importance of a skilled workforce and apprenticeships.

"The government has set out its target to create three million new apprenticeships during this parliament and it is clear that responsible companies like Screwfix will play a key role in this, through their guide and other initiatives."