“Apprenticeships have been a key part of not only our industry but industries across the UK. The continued survival of bright young talent and innovation across the UK depends on a strong, clear and consistent approach by the government on apprenticeships.” Said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).
The NFDA strongly believe in the value that apprenticeships have in the automotive industry, however, urges that the Treasury rethink how it can best help both apprentices and employers. The current policy of “use it or lose it” for the apprentice levy is deeply unfair and unhelpful in the automotive industry. Since 2019 businesses across the UK have lost over £3.3 billion in unspent apprenticeship levy funds, and the NFDA, would like to see where this unspent money is being spent by the Treasury.
Although, the NFDA believe the levy has its flaws we still urge franchised dealers to make use of it the funds within their businesses to help support their apprentice training needs.
The UK has a strong tradition of innovation in the automotive industry, in order to remain competitive internationally. The government must support apprenticeships in order to ensure that the skills gap is filled, and UK automotive employers can remain at the forefront of the automotive industry globally.
“Attracting young people to our industry and providing them with the opportunity to gain technical skills has been a key focus for NFDA and something we have been highlighting over the past years through the continued success of Drive My Career. The government must act swiftly in order to not let down young people and businesses across the country” continued Sue Robinson.
End.
Notes to Editors:
Annaluce Cavalmoretti
NFDA Communications Assistant
Direct: +44 (0) 0207 307 3410
Mobile: +44 (0) 07384514978
Email: annaluce.cavalmoretti@rmif.co.uk
Drive My Career is the employment initiative developed by the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) to help dealers attract and retain candidates by raising awareness and improving the perception of the automotive industry. NFDA represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK. View more on Drive My Career’s website: www.drivemycareer.co.uk and social media channels: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube For more information about Drive My Career, please visit www.drivemycareer.co.uk or email info@drivemycareer.co.uk
