This is according to new research from Simply Business, a small business insurance provider, which released the findings as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

According to the new data, 50% of tradespeople said they find it challenging to hire an apprentice, and almost two-thirds (59%) felt that there was a need for better education around the benefits of apprenticeships in specialised trades.

Regarding motivating more people to take up apprenticeships, Simply Business’ research found that almost four in ten tradespeople (37%) thought better pay for trainees would help incentivise young people to enter the trades.

“With the demand for skilled workers at a record high, investing in apprenticeships is essential,” commented Julie Fisher, Simply Business’ UK CEO.

She added: “We’re proud to insure over 200,000 tradespeople, and we know how critical they are to the UK economy and our communities.

“Two-thirds of all construction apprentices are trained by small firms*, which is why we are shining a spotlight on SME’s calls for the UK government to implement programs in schools that encourage young people to rewarding trade opportunities and to increase funding for apprenticeship schemes.

“By demonstrating their support for UK apprentices, the government can play a key role in creating sustainable career paths for young tradespeople. This, in turn, will help build and maintain a skilled workforce that contributes to the prosperity of our communities and the overall economy.”

At the organisation’s most recent annual conference last year, BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters argued that the KBB industry was failing to directly support apprentices, as less than 100 joined the sector between 2023 and 2024.