Employers across Shropshire are being encouraged to explore the apprenticeship funding and support available to both businesses and apprentices.

The Department for Education has highlighted concerns that awareness of the Apprenticeship Care Leavers' Bursary remains low, meaning many eligible apprentices are missing out on valuable financial support. The bursary provides £3,000 for eligible apprentices who have experience of local authority care, helping them overcome financial barriers and complete their apprenticeship.

The bursary is available to eligible apprentices aged under 25 and is paid during the first year of their apprenticeship through their training provider.

Employers may also be eligible for apprenticeship incentive payments when recruiting young apprentices, including apprentices aged 19 to 24 who have been in local authority care.

With awareness of available support remaining relatively low, employers are encouraged to discuss funding opportunities with their apprenticeship training provider and ensure eligible apprentices are aware of the support available to them.

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