Mayor of Lewisham launches major employment initiative as part of COVID-19 recovery
At a time when unemployment is predicted to soar as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the council is spearheading a drive to increase opportunities for Lewisham residents aged 16 and over to earn while they learn through the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Programme.
The Mayor of Lewisham, Damien Egan, showed his commitment to the programme by announcing the first of the 100 new apprentices will be a new role within his team. The new Mayor’s Office Apprentice will work directly with the Mayor for four days per week, and spend the fifth day at college studying for a Public Sector apprenticeship.
New council apprenticeships will be advertised every week for the next 100 days. Each apprentice will be paid the London Living Wage, and the Council is funding the initiative using its apprenticeship levy.
The Mayor called on partners and local businesses to join with him in supporting local people into employment by providing opportunities for real workplace experience and accredited training. Businesses taking part will be provided with support including creating roles, identification of training providers and with recruitment.
Find out how to apply for an apprenticeship or offer an apprenticeship.
Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said:
"Lewisham has a long history of supporting apprentices and this week we’re launching our most ambitious programme ever. We will be recruiting 100 new apprentices over the next 100 days. These new roles won’t just be in the council, they’ll be with local businesses and public sector jobs with organisations like Lewisham Homes and Lewisham Hospital.
“All our Council apprentices will be paid the London Living Wage which is now £10.75 an hour and have all their tuition paid for. It is a great opportunity for people leaving school or college, or for anyone who is looking for a career change.
“I’m looking forward to welcoming an apprentice into my team. My office works across every area of the council and while the job will be busy, our new apprentice will pick-up a huge amount of experience – it will be a great opportunity that I hope will set them up for life.”
The Mayor of Lewisham’s Apprenticeship Programme has so far recruited over 570 apprentices in Lewisham since 2009. One of those currently benefitting from the scheme, Alfie Doyle, who works with the council’s environment team at the Wearside depot, said:
“The apprenticeship programme is a great opportunity for anyone looking to take a first step in their career or considering changing their profession. Since I started I have learnt and improved a wide range of skills, including my communication, team working and writing reports. My recommendation to anyone thinking about an apprenticeship is to go for it and apply for a job that you are interested in.”
New apprenticeship opportunities will become available every Friday. For further information and to sign up for updates, or if you are a business interested in talking to the council about apprenticeships, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/apprenticeships.