Hermes, one of the UK’s leading consumer delivery companies, has pledged over £200,000 of its apprenticeship levy funds to help support SMEs – the maximum amount it can in a year, under the government scheme. This will enable other companies to take on new apprentices or up-skill existing ones, providing a valuable post pandemic boost for their businesses.
Martijn de Lange, CEO at Hermes UK, said: “This year has presented many challenges for all businesses, but particularly SMEs, so we’re proud to be able to support them in training their future workforces and providing their employees with increased lifelong earning potential.”
To help identify suitable companies and ensure the funds are being spent efficiently, helping those that will benefit most, Hermes is working closely with Leeds City Council, West Midlands Combined Authority and Total People, one of the largest providers of apprenticeships and work-based learning in the north-west of England.
In addition, businesses can see any pledges on a public website and apply for funding to pay for 100% of their apprenticeship training and assessment costs (up to the funding band maximum).