Apprentice support is vital for businesses

MANY small businesses remain confused about apprenticeships and need external advice and help to recruit one, says the Federation of Small Businesses,

The organisation recently asked small firms in Greater Manchester about their awareness and opinion of the current apprenticeship system, ahead of the new Apprentice Levy which is launched this week.

The research suggested over 60 per cent of small firms would need outside help before taking on an apprentice. Nearly a quarter said they were 'clueless'.

Sixty-four per cent of respondents admitted they were unclear around apprentice funding - which was also cited as the biggest barrier to recruiting an apprentice. Finding a training provider was the second most common obstacle, while finding and recruiting suitable candidates was third-biggest barrier.

However 52 per cent of businesses said they'd 'definitely' employ an apprentice if they had a suitable vacancy, and a further 42 per cent said they would consider it.

FSB Greater Manchester chairman Simon Edmondson, said: "There's still far too much confusion among small firms when it comes to apprenticeships - and we've got to address that as a region. There's a good case for a major publicity campaign around apprenticeships.

"Until businesses are more confident in how to take on a young apprentice, then successful apprentice training will be stuck in the slow lane. This should be something the incoming Metro Mayor in Greater Manchester should tackle as a priority."