A new taskforce created by the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, and the Department for Education has been launched in order to devise a strategy on how apprenticeships can be made more accessible to those with learning disabilities.
Only 6% of people with learning disabilities are in employment, and with the proposed cuts to Employment and Support Allowance due to come into effect from next year, the government may struggle to increase this figure. Not only will the taskforce be helping those with learning disabilities secure employment, but it will also working towards the government target to create 3 million apprenticeships by 2020.
The taskforce is being led by Paul Maynard MP for Blackpool North and Cleveleys, and will comprise of employers, training providers, educational experts and charities, such as Disability Rights UK. The group is due to meet 3 times during May and June in order to define their strategy; the first time to identify the issues those with learning difficulties may face when seeking employment or apprenticeship placements; the second to explore the solutions to those barriers; and the third to devise recommendations to present to ministers.
Apprenticeships are a real option for young people when looking to earn a qualification who may be looking for a different route from college or university. Apprenticeships mean you can earn a qualification while also earning a living, and learning important business skills such as communication, team work, and the day to day running of a business.
Aspire Training Team works with young people in Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset to find apprenticeship placements in childcare, business administration and health and social care. To find out about becoming an apprentice, or if you’re an employer considering hiring an apprentice, you can contact the team on 01202 551553 or email info@aspiretrainingteam.co.uk
