COUNTY council Leader Martin Tett is urging Buckinghamshire business bosses to say “you’re hired” more often to young people. And to do this, he says, more firms should sign up to an apprenticeship scheme.
Martin, a champion of employment for young people, has been encouraging colleagues across the county council to give young people a better start on the employment ladder by creating apprenticeships.
As one of Buckinghamshire’s major employers, the county council has invested in more than 30 apprentices during the past three years, and currently has 20 working in roles, including project management, legal services, support for events related to the Olympics and communications.
Martin, who today publishes an open letter (below) to Buckinghamshire’s business community, said: “Talking to businesses, it’s clear that trading conditions are difficult. But we’re the entrepreneurial heart of the UK, and I know our companies are determined to fight their way out of this recession, and are looking for proactive ways in which they can respond.
“Apprenticeship schemes are about investment in young people and investment in the local economy. We’ve got some great apprentices who make a real contribution to the work of our organisation, and we’re looking to recruit more over the coming months.
“My message to Buckinghamshire businesses is simple. Investing in our young people is key to achieving greater economic success, particularly in tough times.”
As part of National Apprentice Week (February 6-10) and to celebrate Buckinghamshire County Council’s apprenticeship programme, Martin is hosting a ‘Meet the Apprentices’ lunch at County Hall on Wednesday, February 8.