Worcestershire’s businesses are being asked to complete a short apprenticeship survey before the end of January 2015.

The surveys, which are being run by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and Worcestershire.Business.Central, are designed to understand the experiences of employers and what they look for when hiring apprentices, as well as any support that could be provided to help increase the Worcestershire apprenticeship opportunities available.

Two surveys are available: one is for companies which currently employ apprentices so that a greater understanding of their experiences can be gained; the other is for those who do not currently employ apprentices, or have previously employed apprentices, to understand what could help these businesses to offer placements.

Peter Pawsey, executive chair at Worcestershire LEP, said: “Due to the hard work of young people, schools and businesses, I am pleased to say the number of people actively participating in an apprenticeship programme now stands at more than 10,000, more than four times the number in 2011. We know we have some excellent apprenticeship schemes within the County and these achievements were recognised and celebrated at the Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards in November. These surveys are important in understanding the experiences of businesses and what support is needed to further increase apprenticeship opportunities in Worcestershire. I would urge businesses to take a few minutes to complete the survey ahead of the deadline.”

The surveys can be completed at www.wlep.co.uk and businesses are being asked to do so before the end of January 2015.