Make UK's comment on the start of the Governments new Kick Start Scheme

However, with manufacturers focusing on keeping their businesses afloat and trying to mitigate future job losses, we may see a slow sign up to this new employment initiative. Manufacturers are also pulling back on their existing education and training programme with work experience, internships and site visits in particular taking a hit, owing to social distancing measures, as well as financial, people and time pressures. Offering a 6 month placement under the Kick Start scheme will be seen as a big ask, and possibly an ask too far for many firms.

Government must work with industry to address these challenges and lead a campaign on the benefits on continuing these invaluable schemes. There is a risk that if companies continue to cut these opportunities for the next generation our sector will face an almighty skills crisis in the next few years.”