The economy in the East of England is likely to receive a huge boost over the coming year as more companies take on apprentices, according to a survey by workforce development specialist TCHC.

Results of the TCHC Apprenticeship Survey 2011 have come hot on the heels of the news that 40,000 new roles will be funded by the Government in 2011/12.

TCHC Chief Executive Dale Morgan explained that more than 150 small to medium enterprises from the East of England took part in the research. It was the first time such survey was carried out by the Essex and Hertfordshire-based company which has helped over 10,000 people facing redundancy and unemployment to re-train, improve their skills and find new work.

He said: “While just 28 per cent of our respondents currently employ apprentices, our results showed that 70 per cent intend to hire between one and five in the next year.  This is very encouraging and shows that the SME attitude towards apprenticeships in the region is changing.

“This has most likely been brought on by external factors such as PR and advertising campaigns by the Government, funding cuts in other training areas and a boost of local funding for apprenticeship schemes.”

Many respondents to the TCHC survey stressed the benefits of employing apprentices. Mr Morgan explained: “They noticed a decrease in staff turnover and recruitment costs, as well as an increase in profits - so we can assume that the overall drive of apprenticeships will have a very positive impact on the local economy.  In light of unemployment amongst young people this is also a very welcome finding.”

The services of TCHC, which include advice and guidance on grants and funding options, are available at no cost.  Its programmes help businesses recruit individuals who are looking to return to or enter into employment, while the company also supports many ‘job ready’ candidates from a wide range of industry sectors who are looking for work.

However, the company’s survey revealed some areas of improvement for apprenticeship providers.  A number of respondents reported poor communication between themselves and providers, while others said the whole process should be simplified.  Other issues included time and financial constraints when taking on an apprentice, as well as negative attitudes from some apprentices.

Mr Morgan said: “These employers also told us that require additional support, such as the provision of a wider pool of candidates and better guidance from the providers.  These barriers of entry clearly have to be addressed so even more businesses welcome these vital apprenticeships in the future.”

He added: “We would like to thank all the respondents to our survey who have provided us with an invaluable insight into apprenticeship programmes within the East of England.”

To read the full survey click here.

ENDS

Notes to editor

Full results of the survey can be obtained on request.  For further information, please contact:

Vega Sims 01923 698 430 or email vega.sims.