Read on for information on funding available to support the recruitment of new apprentices: – From 1 June 2014 Derby City Council were offering 75 grants of £1000 to employers on a first come first served basis through their ‘Get Derby Working’ fund. Contact them direct if your apprentice lives within the borders of Derby City Council and will be aged 16 to 18 when they start their apprenticeship to see if funds are still available… – Nottinghamshire County Council is offering £1500 grants to eligible employers taking on an apprentice for the first time. Funds will be awarded on a first come first served basis. Companies should contact NCC direct to see if funds are still available if you qualify, i.e. your company is located within NCC, your apprentice lives within the borders of NCC, and your apprentice will be aged 16 to 19 when they start their apprenticeship. If you require any additional information on the funds then contact the local Derbyshire Nottinghamshire Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce on 01332 851280 for more information. If your apprentice will be pursuing a professional qualification in civil engineering then contact Surepath too to discuss how we could provide mentor support to your apprentices.