A NEW guide aiming to boost the knowledge on apprenticeship options for tradespeople in Wales has been launched in Newport.

The free pamphlet, created by Screwfix and supported by the Welsh Government, and is entitled ‘Your Guide to Hiring an Apprentice’.

Julie James AM, the minister for skills and science visited the Screwfix store in Maesglas on Thursday, October 12 to launch the guide, which will be available at branches across Wales.

Ms James said: “Developing skilled tradespeople is vital for our economy.

“Apprenticeships offer our young people better career prospects, as well as having a positive impact on the industry. Apprentices bring value to both employers and the economy.

“With more and more employers across Wales recognising the value of successful apprenticeship programs, it’s a really great time to launch the guide to help tradespeople understand just how simple it can be to hire an apprentice.”

Screwfix released the guide in response to feedback from its trade customers and research from the cabinet secretary which suggests Welsh tradespeople want to know more about the options available through apprenticeship schemes.

Graham Smith, the marketing director of Screwfix, said: “As a key supplier to the trade, we’re always looking for ways to support tradespeople in growing their businesses.

“We know how busy our customers are and from their feedback, we also know that they struggle to recruit skilled tradesmen and women.

“It was very clear that something needed to be done to help, which is why we have developed this guide and we’re excited to launch it in Wales.

“The guide will help tradespeople who have little or no experience of apprentices, whether they’re looking to find out about the best available route, or the financial support available to them, it’s all covered in the booklet.

“We encourage interested tradespeople to pick up their free guide from one of our stores in Wales.”

Many of the tradespeople questioned by the Screwfix poll have little or no experience of taking on apprentices, with only 34 per cent having employed an apprentice.