Businesses that want to take on apprentices in the Mansfield district are being reminded they could qualify for grants of up to £1,500.

Businesses must be based locally, employ fewer than 250 staff and be creating a new apprenticeship opportunity for someone aged 16 to 24.

Alexsa Beauty and Holistic Studio, Mansfield, took advantage of the scheme, using the grant to help fund extra training for its latest apprentice, Kimberley Perry.

Jenny Dunville, owner of the salon, said: “This grant has made a huge difference. It has enabled us to provide Kimberley with other training courses not covered by her college course, which has increased her skills and abilities beyond her initial training. We could not have done this without the funding.”

Kimberley said: “My confidence has improved, my communications skills have improved and I know much more because I started at the bottom, so my experience is broader.”

The council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, Coun Dave Saunders, said: “I hope local businesses take full advantage of this pot of money and that it will encourage businesses who are toying with the idea of taking on an apprentice to take the plunge.”

For details about the grants, call the council’s regeneration service on 01623 463152 or email [email protected]

Coun Dave Saunders is pictured getting a manicure from Kimberley Perry, watched by Jenny Dunville.