A flagship project has seen dozens of young people take the first steps of their career.
Launched last year, the Future Apprentices for Business (FAB) programme helps borough firms to ‘grow their own’ workforce, thanks to grants provided by Wigan Council.
A total of £1.5m has been invested into it so far – following further commitments in this year’s budget – and the results are already impressive.
So how does it work? To get involved, a business must have a location in Wigan Borough, employ fewer than 250 people, and be setting up a new apprenticeship employing someone aged 16 to 24 who lives in the borough.
The minimum grant available is £3k, with an enhanced £5k package on offer to businesses who select their apprentice from the council’s talent pool of enthusiastic young people who are ready to learn.
Leigh-based solar panel experts Perfect Sense Energy welcomed Cameron onto a Level 3 Digital Support Technician apprenticeship last autumn, with Wigan and Leigh College providing his training.
Technical manager Ryan Thomas is a former apprentice.
“We’re keen to offer local people opportunities to join the business where we can, and Cameron is just the latest in a long line,” he explains.
“I joined the company as an apprentice so that enables me to support from my own experiences and he can see first-hand the great opportunities for progression.
“Cameron has made an ideal start with us, showing passion and willingness to learn. That will stand him in good stead for the future. He’s picked up things really quickly and we can’t imagine not having him in the business.”
Embrace Wigan & Leigh is one of the charities that are part of the FAB network.
They provide support for disabled people and their families. McKenzie joined their team in 2023, chosen through the talent pool.
“We were looking for an apprentice to help create a more diverse and inclusive team,” explains community manager Kate Spragg.
“It’s been so rewarding to see McKenzie grow and develop. The support we’ve received through the FAB scheme has been fantastic and I’d really encourage anyone thinking about taking on an apprentice to go for it.”
Could an apprentice be the right fit for your business?
Visit Future Apprentices for Business grants programme.