Clearer picture emerges over apprenticeship shake-up

The need for more clarity over the looming apprenticeship levy scheme is finally being acknowledged, according to a leading Lancashire HR professional.

However, she stresses it is vital that the government remains on track to introduce the scheme and warns that any delays will affect the recruitment and training processes of companies like hers.

“And that cost should mean we have some flexibility to do more training around the people we already have and look at things like degree apprenticeships, which we haven’t had before. Right now it looks like we will have a little bit to play with.”

These businesses will pay 0.5 per cent of their payroll costs to the HMRC on a monthly basis, after an initial £15,000 allowance.

• There is more information on the levy and what it means to businesses in the current issue of Lancashire Business View. Subscribe here.
• Apprenticeship Reforms was produced in association with Lancashire WBL Executive Forum, Lancashire Skills & Employment Hub and The Lancashire Colleges.