Businesses and apprentices across the Malvern Hills District will have more opportunity to apply for funding to build skills in the workforce.
The £283,000 of funding, which has come from the Government’s Community Renewal Fund (CRF), has been extended and support will now be available until at least the end of September 2022.
The CRF is being used to invest in skills, training and employment opportunities and more than 40 businesses and 60 apprentices have received support since December.
Businesses can receive an Upskilling Grant of up to £2,000 towards the cost of taking on a new apprentice or trainee.
Support payments of up to £1,000 are available to help apprentices and trainees cover the cost of travel, equipment, clothing and other associated expenses.
Payments of £500 are also on offer to anyone starting an apprenticeship to help encourage people to consider on-the-job training as a route into work and to take up the apprenticeship position available locally.
The Fold in Bransford recently received a grant from the fund which is being used to invest in the charity’s trainee Accounts Assistant.
Martha Searle, Projects Co-ordinator at The Fold, said: “We are here to help improve the health and wellbeing of individuals, the community and our plant. To do this we help people learn about and be inspired to live healthier, more sustainable and creative lives. The funding application process was very straightforward, our contacts at Malvern Hills District Council couldn’t have been more helpful. The payment was prompt and we’re delighted with the progress our trainee is making”.
Cllr Daniel Walton, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Tourism at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “It is great to hear the Community Renewal Fund programme has been extended, allowing more people to receive financial support. This will provide the opportunity for businesses to thrive, as well as apprentices to receive that extra help to kickstart their careers.”
