Agenda item

To commit £1.1m of one-off funding from the Covid-19 grant receipt to fund the Apprenticeships scheme, as well as the “Cynllun Yfory” Scheme for managers and experts. 

The report was submitted by Cllr Nia Jeffreys 

DECISION

To commit £1.1m of one-off funding from the Covid-19 grant receipt to fund the Apprenticeships scheme, as well as the “Cynllun Yfory” Scheme for managers and experts.

DISCUSSION

The report was presented, noting the decision to commit £1.1m to fund the Apprenticeships Scheme, as well as the “Cynllun Yfory” Scheme for managers and experts. It was highlighted that these schemes not only developed the skills of individuals but also assisted to develop the workforce for the future.

It was noted two years ago that the Council had earmarked an amount to fund the Apprenticeships Scheme, and with this money, it had been possible to appoint 35 apprentices and nine of these had been appointed to posts within the Council. It was expressed that this scheme had been a success and had realised more than what was planned two years ago. It was noted that the scheme had tried to encourage not only young people to take part in the scheme but also older people. It was noted that there was a shortage of bilingual apprenticeship provision in the county, and that this aspect was at the forefront of the scheme.  It was highlighted that the apprenticeships opportunities were in specific locations in order to ensure the future of services.

It was also noted that the funding would contribute also to the "Cynllun Yfory" scheme for managers and experts. It was noted that it was a scheme for graduates which provided jobs in key locations. It was emphasised that this scheme had existed for some years and had proven its worth, and it was explained that it was in-keeping with the members' vision.

Observations arising from the discussion

¾    It was noted that funding this scheme was essential in order to create sustainable communities.

¾    The report was welcomed, and it was asked whether the apprenticeships would lead to permanent posts within the Council. It was noted that nine had received permanent posts and eight continued on the apprenticeships scheme. It was noted that it was a popular scheme and that the number of candidates for the electrician apprentice post and within the information technology field were high.

¾    Both schemes were positive and there were fully supported. It was asked whether there was support for the unsuccessful candidates. It was also asked if there was a lot of interest, whether it would be possible create more opportunities within the field. It was noted that there was a relationship with providers and that they were confident that it would be possible to hold a dialogue to guide individuals who were unsuccessful.

¾     Attention was drawn to the slogan - Tai, Gwaith, Iaith (Housing, Employment, Language) - and it was stressed that the housing action plan was in place for the housing aspect, and that there was a need to provide support to be able to offer jobs through the medium of Welsh to individuals within the county.