The Scottish Government announced £10 million for a range of measures to recruit and retain Apprentices. This targeted funding will help Modern and Graduate Apprentices, who are facing redundancy, get back into work. This includes additional funding for Scotland’s “Adopt an Apprentice” programme which has recently been enhanced from £2,000 to £5,000. This incentive is for an employer who is willing to take on a redundant Modern or Graduate Apprentice. Further information on Adopt an Apprentice can be accessed here: –https://www.ourskillsforce.co.uk/invest-in-young-people/adopt-an- Apprentice/
 

The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture announced £60 million for Scotland’s Young Person’s Guarantee, giving all young people aged 16 to 24 access to work, training or education, which Apprenticeships will be integral to. On 5 November, the Economy Secretary officially launched the Young Person’s Guarantee and further information can be accessed here: – https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/youngpersonsguarantee
 

As part of the Young Person’s Guarantee, £10 million of funding is towards the development of Pathways to Apprenticeships which is aimed at responding to an expected gap between young people being available for work and when employers start to recruit again. Skills Development Scotland (SDS) have worked with colleges, training providers and other partners to design Pathway Apprenticeships to provide work-based learning opportunities for young people to get industry-recognised qualifications and to develop the skills employers require.
 

Further advice and guidance can be accessed on the website My World of Work, including skills tools and employment support. SDS also launched an Online Learning Portal connecting people with free-to- access online learning materials.
 

Any Apprentices who find themselves facing redundancy can be supported through the well-established Partnership for Continuing Employment (PACE) service and SDS also operate a helpline for employers and learners. This includes dedicated careers and Apprenticeship advice, signposting to well-being resources and practical information on Apprenticeships.

SDS also frequently update their website with the latest support and advice for Apprentices, employers and learning providers, including FAQs. This support can be accessed here: – https://www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/