Pictured above: Will Nixon

A social enterprise which tackles worklessness among young people today threw a major lifeline to Staffordshire businesses that are financially struggling to recruit and retain skilled employees.

PM Training has already helped more than 10,000 people across the region into sustainable jobs and apprenticeships.

But the organisation, part of the Aspire Group, is now turning its attention to businesses that have been hit by the economic downturn.

Will Nixon, Chief Executive of PM Training, is inviting businesses to benefit from talented work-ready apprentices for up to two months - potentially longer - at no cost.

He said: "With this initiative we are trying to assist both businesses and young people by offering companies an apprentice for a minimum of eight weeks. In certain circumstances we will look to extend this subsidy even further.

"We know that for many companies the current economic climate means that times are tough. We also know that it is young people who have been hardest hit in the recession. They are the ones who unfortunately have difficultly accessing a job or apprenticeship.

"With this initiative we are creating an opportunity where everyone benefits."

Latest figures released from the Office for National Statistics show the number of jobless people in the UK has risen to 2.51 million - its highest level since December 1994.

PM Training, based in Stoke-on-Trent, provides significant apprenticeship opportunities across a variety of sectors including construction trades, business administration, engineering, landscaping, manufacturing, customer services and warehousing and distribution.

It already works with more than 300 companies, enabling them to benefit from increased productivity and staff retention.

"Companies have found that an apprentice learning on the job is much more likely to hit the ground running when given a permanent position than someone who has no practical experience," said Will.

"In the long run this can save businesses a great deal of time and money - and help increase their productivity. Our apprentices have brought great value, new energy and long-term prosperity to hundreds of companies but we are determined to help even more."

As part of the subsidised apprenticeship programme, all businesses are invited to apply for the valuable resource. Every company that PM Training supplies apprentices to from June will benefit from financial support for an initial eight week period.

"Every individual is proven to be work ready before moving on into an apprenticeship. We are now inviting more businesses to put us to the test - risk free," added Will.

Businesses who would like to take advantage of PM Training's subsidised apprentice programme should contact Steve Rushton on 01782 279 121.