Cumbria is facing a looming skills shortage in a number of its most important sectors. The Upper Eden Business Support programme – funded by Eden District Council – is hosting an event in Kirkby Stephen to help businesses ensure they have a supply of skilled labour moving forward.
According to forecasts from Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, there will be a labour shortfall of more than 20,000 people across Cumbria within the next decade.
One way towards tackling this shortfall is through local businesses taking on apprentices to provide jobs for young people.
Appleby Training & Heritage Centre will be at the event to provide information on the Eden Apprenticeship Scheme, which they run on behalf of Eden District Council. The scheme offers to cover a portion of the wage costs of a new apprentice to encourage small businesses to create new job opportunities for young people.
Burnetts Solicitors will be also be speaking to businesses about key employment law aspects that they need to adhere to, whilst Cumbria Careers Hub will also be outlining its strategy to curb the issue of young talent leaving the county and not returning.
Kellie Bradburn-Sims, Business Advisor at the Upper Eden Business Hub, said; “The event is a great opportunity for Upper Eden Businesses to network and hear from a range of speakers. We are also really pleased to be hosting the event at The Bothy which is a fantastic new addition to the Kirkby Stephen high street.”
The networking event will be taking place at The Bothy in Kirkby Stephen on Thursday 13th June from 7pm.
The Upper Eden Business programme also offers a range of business support, including 1-to-1 business advice for Upper Eden Businesses, through the business hub located in Kirkby Stephen Business Park.
Businesses should contact [email protected] or call 017683 89132 to book a place for the event, or to enquire further about the business support available through the business hub.
