Apprentices face regional disparities in financial support, study shows

New research from think tank Policy Exchange has revealed a "postcode lottery" when it comes to the financial assistance offered to apprentices. The study found that apprentices in Liverpool receive a 50% discount on train season tickets, while those in West or South Yorkshire receive no similar support. In the West Midlands, apprentices can access public transport discounts for only their first 16 weeks, compared to one year in London. The report also highlighted the lack of financial support available to apprentices compared to young people in education.

Apprentices disadvantaged by regional disparities

The research conducted by Policy Exchange highlights the significant differences in the financial support offered to apprentices across the country. Apprentice trainees in Liverpool can benefit from a 50% discount on train season tickets, while no similar discounts are available in West or South Yorkshire. In the West Midlands, apprentices can only access discounts on public transport for their first 16 weeks, compared to a full year in London.

Financial support for apprentices falls behind that of young people in education

The study from Policy Exchange reveals that not only do apprentices face regional disparities in financial support, they also miss out on the same level of assistance as young people in education. For example, London's Apprentice Oyster Card is only available for the first 12 months, while the 18+ student equivalent is valid until the end of a school, college, or university course. The report also points to the Government's 16-19 Bursary Fund, which offers support for struggling young people in schools and colleges.

Call for equal financial support for apprentices

Policy Exchange is calling on the Government to address the regional disparities and lack of financial support for apprentices. The think tank argues that apprenticeships should be viewed as an attractive and financially feasible alternative to university, and that public transport discounts and bursaries should be provided on par with those available to students.

Importance of apprenticeships in widening opportunity

The research from Policy Exchange has raised important questions for policy makers regarding the role of apprenticeships in widening opportunity in the UK. Alun Francis, Interim Chair of the Social Mobility Commission, commented on the findings, stating that apprenticeships have a strong role to play in providing increased opportunities for young people.

Government responds to research

A spokesperson from the Department for Education responded to the study, stating that apprenticeships are paid jobs that offer the opportunity to earn while learning valuable skills. The spokesperson also highlighted measures taken by the government to provide financial support to apprentices, such as increasing the care leavers bursary to £3,000 and providing £1,000 to employers and providers when they hire 16-18 year old apprentices, which can be used to cover transport and other costs.