Press Release
For immediate release

CIWM Calls for Renewed Focus on Skills in the Resources & Waste Sector Following Apprenticeship Changes

Responding to the recent announcement from Government regarding the withdrawal of funding for several apprenticeship standards, Katie Cockburn, CIWM Senior Director of Policy & Education, commented:

"The withdrawal of funding for 16 apprenticeship standards from September this year appears as another missed opportunity, overlooking the green skills needs and growth potential of the resources and waste sector.

Employing over 140,000 people and worth £24bn to the UK’s economy every year, our sector is a key contributor to UK’s net zero and resource resilience ambitions. The sector is working hard to address skills gaps and improve sector attractiveness as we drive towards greater resource efficiency, higher recycling levels and circular economy opportunities.

Whilst we recognise the importance of focusing on support for young people getting into work, the withdrawal of apprenticeships support at key levels – including team leader, operations manager and cleaning and hygiene specialisms – will be disappointing to businesses and organisations across our sector.

As a leading training and accreditation services provider, CIWM will continue to work with its members, client partners, and with government to build the case for a more proactive approach to incentivising and enabling high-quality training opportunities for our sector.

Good employers know that investment in upskilling, reskilling and training their staff is vital to deliver jobs, growth and key skills development across a dynamic sector that provides the bedrock for a more circular and resource efficient economy."


ENDS

More information:
For more information and to discuss how these changes impact your team’s training plans, please reach out to our Education team.

About CIWM:
CIWM (the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing over 8,000 individuals in the UK, Ireland and overseas. Established in 1898 - and now in its 125th year - CIWM is a non-profit making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues.

Press contact:
Kacie Foskett, Brand Marketing & Communications Manager
T: +44 (0) 1604 620426
E: kacie.foskett@ciwm.co.uk