The UK government’s latest apprenticeship reforms miss a critical opportunity to support individuals over the age of 22 and represent a significant setback for social mobility, says CIMA.
The government recently announced an expansion of youth apprenticeships to 50,000 places over the next three years, in an effort to tackle youth unemployment.
The number of young people starting apprenticeships has fallen 40% in the last 10 years.
Andrew Harding, Chief Executive of CIMA (pictured), said: “The announcement to expand government apprenticeships does not go far enough to address the UK’s productivity crisis. While investment in training is welcome, the decision taken earlier this year to remove funding for Level 7 apprenticeships for over-22s in many sectors leaves organisations with fewer options to reskill and upskill their workforce. Individuals seeking to change careers or return to work now face additional barriers and reduced opportunities. Limiting support for those over 22 risks slowing social mobility and economic growth at a time when both are urgently needed.”
