Just one in three small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) up and down the country currently offer apprenticeships, according to the findings of new research. 

Published as part of the Close Brothers Business Barometer, the study emphasised the advantages offered by the training scheme, noting that two-fifths of companies that do offer apprenticeships believe it gives them access to the best young talent. 

Concerns have been raised by Engineering UK that the country does not currently have the capacity or growth rate to meet the forecast demand for skilled engineers. However, apprenticeships were highlighted as one means of reducing this risk. 

Managing director of the broker division at Close Brothers Asset Finance Brian Dhenin said: "Apprenticeships could play a key role in helping SMEs bridge that skills gap but perhaps the cost and process of recruitment and training are prohibitive factors for many smaller businesses."