RSA pledges more than £750k to support SME talent attraction in 2022

RSA Insurance has pledged more than £750k to help SME businesses create 146 apprenticeship opportunities throughout 2022.

The apprenticeships will be implemented at 40 businesses across 12 sectors that are reportedly finding it challenging to retain and attract new talent.

These sectors include agriculture, business administration, construction, legal and finance, sales and hair and beauty.

The funding provided by RSA also seeks to support the UK government’s broader agenda to level up pay, employment and productivity around the country.

RSA professional development consultant Clare Connor highlighted that one benefit of apprenticeships is that they are “inclusive and available to everyone, whether it’s school leavers venturing into the world of work for the first time or mature professionals looking to upskill”.

Apprentice impact

Connor continued: “We are pleased to announce our pledge to support the development of apprenticeship programmes in vital roles and sectors.

“Apprenticeship opportunities must be celebrated as they build, shape and transform careers and lives for the better.

“We’re excited to support and facilitate so many businesses to provide fantastic opportunities and share the success and benefits we’re experiencing through our apprenticeship programme.

“We know apprentices will make a huge impact and play a crucial role in developing and creating talent pipelines.”

RSA introduced its first insurance apprenticeship programme in 2018 - the insurer now operates 58 programmes across its business. The average RSA apprentice age is 33.

In addition to the funding, RSA has also committed to recruit a minimum of 70 college and university leavers this summer as part of its new 2022 graduate scheme, which operates alongside its Bright Futures Early Careers programme for apprentices and graduates.