Scottish Government provides practical assistance during tough times

Bob Doris MSP has today called on apprentices who have lost their jobs in the current recession to call a Scottish Government funded advice line to find a new placement to finish their apprenticeship.

Any company taking on redundant apprentices under the 'adopt an apprentice' scheme will receive £2,000.

One hundred redundant apprentices in Scotland have now been supported back into work under the Scottish Government's 'Adopt an Apprentice' scheme.

The scheme supports the Scottish Government's guarantee of continued training for apprentices who lose their job during the downturn. In total, £1.7m is being provided, supported by the European Social Fund, to help redundant apprentices across Scotland get back into work.

Encouraging both redundant apprentices and companies to make use of the scheme, the SNP MSP for Glasgow said: "There has been an excellent uptake from employers to date and I hope many more will come on board and 'adopt' an apprentice.

"Whether you are an interested business or an apprentice who has just lost your job, please contact the scheme's information line on 0808 100 1855.

"This initiative will not only help apprentices that are losing a job through no fault of their own but will also support businesses to keep a strong skills base during difficult times.

"Because of Scottish Government action 100 apprentices have been able to continue in training and I am know that many more will be helped in the coming months."