YOUNG people can get a head start on their careers at East Hampshire District Council’s apprenticeship forum, to be held in Petersfield.

The council supports apprentices by supplementing their income and travel expenses and by matching young workers up with suitable local businesses.

On Tuesday, January 12, would-be apprentices and businesses looking to take on new talent can find out what the apprenticeship scheme can do for them.

East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) leader Ferris Cowper said: “Our apprenticeship scheme has been running for two years now and we have already helped get more than 20 young people into employment with local firms.

“Apprenticeships help everyone. The apprentice can gain experience and earn wages on the job while also attending a college to work towards valuable qualifications. Meanwhile their employer has a chance to train a keen young employee in the detail of the job and embed them in the culture of the organisation.

“Apprenticeships give you the best of both worlds.”

Martyn Kiddey, MD of Pinetree Enterprises Ltd and a local Apprenticeship Ambassador, will attend the meeting to offer the businessman’s point of view.

He said: “Pinetree Enterprises and its sister company, Shop Display Systems, have directly benefited from EHDC’s fantastic apprenticeship scheme.

“As well as financial support there is advice to overcome the barriers that can prevent companies from taking on apprentices. This has been a real incentive to employers to invest in apprenticeships that in turn bring ongoing benefits to the company.

“I would encourage any local businesses interested in taking on an apprentice to come along and find out how it can be done. ”

The meeting will be run as part of the Petersfield Community Forum. Cllr Judy Onslow, chair of the forum, said: “We are inviting businesses, school leavers, job seekers and anyone who thinks they may be able to benefit from apprenticeships.

“I would urge anyone who is interested in becoming an apprentice to come along and get involved.”

Launched in July 2013, the scheme makes contributions to wages, to ensure that apprentices earn the national minimum wage or above, and help pay for training and travel expenses.

The event is to be held at 6.30pm on Tuesday, January 12, at the Council Chamber in Penns Place, Petersfield, GU31 4EX.