Partner Article

MP urges businesses to shape future of Stockton with apprenticeships

A special business breakfast, hosted by Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham, aims to encourage more small and medium companies to take on apprentices – and invites employers to help shape the future strategic direction of Stockton.

After learning that there is a shortage of placements for apprentices across the area, Alex discussed the problem with the Federation of Small Businesses in the North East and agreed to host an event to encourage employers to learn how they can both help and benefit.

They have now assembled a working group of local businesses and regional organisations, including Stockton Riverside College, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Sembcorp, to help get employers involved.

Alex will host the event at Stockton Riverside College Bede Sixth Form College on Friday, May 9 2014, and will speak specifically about the importance of apprenticeships.

The event will also feature updates from each of the partners on ways to help grow the local area, how employers can be supported to take on apprentices, how the college can help support small businesses and what they see as the future for the local area.

Small businesses will also have the opportunity to network with other likeminded firms whilst enjoying a free breakfast and taking the chance to liaise with local and regional bodies that may be able to aid in achieving their objectives.

Michael Janes, FSB Teesside Branch Chairman, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Stockton Riverside College, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Sembcorp to help small businesses shape the future strategic direction of Stockton.

“Small businesses are a critical part of the future economic growth and hosting this networking event will help more companies to get involved with key players across the town.

“We’re urging all small businesses across Stockton to come along grab some breakfast and meet fellow small businesses.”

Alex Cunningham MP said: “When I heard from Sembcorp in particular that they were struggling to place apprentices in the workplace I knew we needed to do something and I’m grateful to the FSB and other partners for making this event happen.

“I hope it will help young people find the placements they need and then the skills that are their future. If the event is a success, I’ll look to develop more business events on other topics.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Federation of Small Businesses .