Farron praises local businesses as apprenticeship numbers rise

Local MP Tim Farron has praised the efforts of local businesses as figures released today reveal that the numbers of apprenticeships in Westmorland and Lonsdale last year rose by more than double the national rate.

In 2015/16 there were 840 apprenticeships started in Westmorland and Lonsdale, a 5% increase on the previous year. This compares to an increase of less than 2% across England as a whole over the same time period. The North West region also saw an increase of less than 2%.

Tim has praised the local businesses who have taken on apprentices.

Tim said: "I am delighted to see that the number of apprenticeships in our area continues to rise. This means more opportunities for young people to earn and learn at the same time, gaining experience in the jobs market whilst learning valuable skills.

"I would like to pay tribute to the huge numbers of employers across our area who have decided to take on apprentices. Thanks to their commitment to apprenticeships, the number available to young people here is increasing by more than double the national rate.

"Under the coalition government the Lib Dems spearheaded a major new focus on apprenticeships, and these figures show that this proud legacy is still being felt now."