Businesses in Wychavon could receive up to £2,000 from a new upskilling grant.

The money is to be used to cover the cost of taking on a new apprentice or trainee

Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils have introduced the grants as part of their £283,000 Upskilling Project, part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund.

Richard Morris, executive board member for Economic Growth and Tourism on Wychavon District Council, said: “Upskilling grants are a great way to help businesses cover the cost of taking on a trainee or apprentice, boosting their workforce with new talent and ideas.”

Businesses in any sector can apply for up to two grants, so long as the trainees started between April 1, 2021, and the end of March, 2022.

Trainees must be paid at least the minimum wage for at least 20 hours a week, for a minimum of three weeks, and the trainee must gain a recognised qualification.

The businesses must also need to be based in Wychavon employ fewer than 250 people.

Grants are paid on a first come first served basis and will only last for as long as the funding does.

Businesses are urged to apply early, so they don’t miss out.

Cllr Marc Bayliss, cabinet member with responsibility for Economy and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said: “The Community Renewal fund is a fantastic opportunity to make a real positive impact through funding imaginative new programmes that will boost productivity and grow local economies.

“I am delighted to see the plan from Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils, and the potential they have to make a big difference in the local community. I would encourage people to get involved where they can.

“It is brilliant to see that the £2.7million of funding for Worcestershire is supporting innovative and impactful projects across the county.”

Apprentices and trainees are also able to apply for payments of £500.

Businesses can find out more about the grant, and how to apply, by visiting www.wychavon.gov.uk/business.