Issue - meetings

1.                To approve the establishment of an Apprenticeship Scheme for 2016; and,

2.               That Council be recommended to approve the release of £41,522 from the Management of Change reserve in order to deliver the scheme.

1.                To approve the establishment of an Apprenticeship Scheme for 2016; and,

2.               That Council be recommended to approve the release of £41,522 from the Management of Change reserve in order to deliver the scheme.

Reason for Decision

To recommend to Cabinet the establishment of a new Apprenticeship Scheme Framework to support the Council’s workforce development needs and contribute to the economic regeneration of Dacorum.

Implications

Financial

The cost of establishing this scheme from January 2016 is £41,522 which will create two apprenticeship opportunities at Dacorum.

Value for Money

There will be a competitive salary package and development plan in place to ensure staff are supported and productive.

Risk Implications

If the Council decided not implement this programme the following risks have been identified:

·        Risk of increasing skill gaps for the local area, which would impact on the local economy.

·        Reduced employment opportunities for people in the local community.

·        Not supporting the delivery of economic well being in the local community.

·        Workforce issues will remain in some services

Community Impact Assessment

A Community Impact Assessment has been completed

Health And Safety Implications

All posts would be supported by the Council’s Health and Safety policies.

Corporate Objectives

Regeneration and Economy

Working with those offering skills, training and apprenticeships needed for local jobs.

Advice

The Portfolio Holder for Residents & Corporate Services reported that in May 2012, Cabinet agreed to support and fund an Apprenticeships Scheme Framework, to support and enable the employment of local people, and contribute to the economic regeneration of Dacorum. 

The council had supported 19 apprentices since 2012 and a quarter of those had found employment with Dacorum Borough Council.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance and Resources felt this was a very worthwhile scheme and fully supported the recommendations.

The Leader of the Council asked when the apprentices would be with the council.

The Team Leader for Human Resources explained that the process would begin as soon as possible with the aim for them to start in January 2016.

The Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regeneration asked if they had looked at specific areas for their employment.

The Team Leader for Human Resources said they would look at areas where it was difficult to recruit to.

Consultation

Consultation took place with:

·       Cllr Neil Harden

·       Assistant Director – Chief Executive’s Unit

·       Corporate Management Team – workforce planning paper

Voting

None.