One hundred redundant apprentices in Scotland have now been supported back into work under the Scottish Government's 'Adopt an Apprentice' scheme.

Launched in June, the scheme provides £2,000 to employers who recruit a redundant apprentice and commit to employing them until the completion of their training. It supports the Scottish Government's guarantee of continued training for apprentices who lose their job during the downturn.

In total, £1.7 million is being provided, supported by the European Social Fund, to help redundant apprentices across Scotland get back into work.

The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Fiona Hyslop, today met apprentice painters, Craig McKenzie and Jason Hardy of Glasgow, recruited by Dumbreck Decorators at the end of July, to hear how the initiative had helped them back into training and employment.

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Ms Hyslop said: "The Adopt the Apprentice scheme is the most comprehensive scheme available in the UK for supporting redundant apprentices and is open to apprentices of all age and in all sectors.

"I welcome the positive response so far from employers and would encourage others who are interested in adopting an apprentice to contact the scheme's information line, 0808 100 1855. Through this initiative, we can help ensure that more apprentices like Craig and Jason can continue to complete their training in employment."

Jennifer Breingan, Business Development Executive with Dumbreck Decorators, commented: "The incentive on offer through the Scottish Government's Adopt an Apprentice scheme encouraged us to recruit two part-skilled apprentices during a year when we had previously taken a decision not to recruit any additional staff."

Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, added: "The Scottish Chambers of Commerce welcomes the support being provided through the scheme. It is providing much needed assistance, enabling both the individual and business to continue training. Business and government must continue to work together to focus our collective energy on developing and growing Scotland's skill base. This is and will be our competitive advantage."

The Adopt an Apprentice scheme was launched by Ms Hyslop in June as part of ScotAction - an integrated package of support to help individuals and businesses through the recession and provide skills assistance.

Where alternative employment is not available, redundant apprentices are able to access college courses through the £7 million provided to colleges by the Scottish Funding Council.

(GK/KMcA)