Employers can from today apply for cash incentives to help them take on new apprenticeships, apprenticeships and skills minister, Gillian Keegan has announced today. 

The incentives are part of the government’s plan for jobs and will see businesses be offered £2,000 for each new apprentice they hire aged under the age of 25, and £1,500 for each newly recruited apprentice aged 25 and over. 

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Ms Keegan said that the offer will “help more employers large and small to invest in the skilled workforce they need to help them recover and grow.”

She said: “We recognise the huge impact coronavirus has had on individuals and businesses up and down the country.

“Through our Plan for Jobs we have taken unprecedented steps to protect, support and create jobs, including driving more high-quality apprenticeship opportunities to help get our economy moving.

“I strongly encourage as many employers as possible to apply now, and take advantage of this generous offer whether it is used to recruit apprentices for the first time or expand their current apprenticeship offer.”

The DfE said that the cash is designed to support employers to cover the cost of recruiting an apprentice, such as providing facilities, uniforms, helping with travel costs or to help pay their salary.

Rishi Sunak, chancellor of the Exchequer, said: “Apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing the skills people need, particularly young people, as they seek work in these challenging times. 

“I urge every employer, big or small, national or local, to sign up to our offer and support apprentices as we continue our economic recovery. Our Plan for Jobs will create, support and protect jobs across all regions of the UK, and ensure our economy is fit for the future.”