Hello Everyone!
We’re already into April, and the pace hasn’t slowed. From the launch of our new membership scheme to another two triathlons completed by Alex (that’s 40 and counting), it’s been a month of real movement – both on the ground and across the sector.
National Automotive Careers Week is in full swing, our bursary continues to open doors for smaller repairers, and we’ve just released our brand-new Investor Pack, making it easier than ever to understand how to support the work we do.
This edition is packed with vehicle repair industry news, stories, and some brilliant contributions from our partners. Thanks for staying with us – we hope it’s a useful, energising read.
Emma Speed
Managing Director
The AutoRaise Bursary: Breaking Down Barriers for Small Repairers
One of the key ways AutoRaise supports the sector is through our bursary programme—a practical funding initiative designed to help small, independent repairers take on apprentices when they otherwise might not be able to.
We know the early months of employing an apprentice can be financially tough, especially for businesses with tighter margins. The AutoRaise Bursary steps in to help bridge that gap, providing up to £7,500 over six months to eligible employers.
How It Works
The bursary is aimed at businesses with:
- An annual turnover under £2.5 million
- Apprentices in core roles like Panel, MET, Paint, VDA or Automotive Refinishing
- Training delivered by one of our trusted education partners:
- Emtec
- Blackpool and Fylde College
- Thatcham Research
Funding is paid in two instalments and can be used to offset salary, tools, travel, or other onboarding costs.
For many small repairers, this support makes the difference between saying “yes” to an apprentice—or walking away from the opportunity altogether.
The bursary plays a vital role in our mission to reduce the skills gap, boost retention, and help the next generation find their place in the industry.
We’re incredibly proud to be offering real, practical help where it’s needed most—and grateful to the supporters who make this possible.
This month, I wanted to talk about the impact collaboration can have within our industry.
As I listened to key stakeholders—including bodyshop owners, patrons, educational institutions, and other charities—it became very clear how everyone is uniting to address the skills gaps we face in the sector, supporting young people into employment at the same time. The work which is happening across the country is phenomenal and there are so many positives for us all to be proud of.
One standout conversation was with a single site bodyshop owner who shared their commitment to taking on apprentices despite the daily challenges of running a busy shop. They spoke about how essential partnerships with AutoRaise and educational providers have been in influencing them to take on an apprentice. We are supporting the business and helping them navigate current hurdles, demonstrating our shared determination to nurture skilled technicians.
It was inspiring to share so many creative solutions during our discussions, with each person contributing ideas and insights to make the apprenticeship process even more effective. Everyone understands that tackling the skills gap requires a united effort, and we’re focused on making it happen.
Experiencing this has reinforced my belief that success in our industry comes from working together. The commitment to lift one another up, share resources, and build strong pathways for apprentices is what makes a lasting impact. By joining forces, we are not just filling apprenticeship roles; we are laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future for our industry.
National Automotive Careers Week Is Happening Now – Here’s How to Get Involved
This week marks the second ever National Automotive Careers Week (AWE25)—and it’s already gaining serious momentum across the industry.
Led by School of Thought (Automotive), in partnership with Autotech Group and supported by the IMI, this annual campaign is all about bringing Work Experience back into focus—and giving young people a clear, exciting view of what a future in our sector could look like.
We believe the automotive industry deserves a dedicated moment each year to showcase its talent, passion and potential. AWE25 is that moment.
The Portal – Connecting Young People with Real Experience
One of the biggest successes of this initiative has been The Portal—a national platform created to help schools, students, and parents find meaningful work experience placements with local businesses.
It’s free to use, easy to register, and designed to make it simple for young people to explore the industry first-hand.
Last year’s launch saw:
- Over 10,000 website visitors
- Huge traction across social media
- Dozens of employers raising their hands to offer placements
And this year? With The AA as headline partner, the reach is growing even further—and there’s still time to be part of it.
Let’s Keep It Going
It’s not too late to take part.
If you’re an employer, supplier, training provider or supporter of the next generation:
✅ Share your opportunities
✅ Talk about your career journey
✅ Signpost young people to The Portal
✅ Start a conversation in your local schools and communities
Let’s show the future of our sector that it’s not just alive—it’s full of energy, opportunity, and ambition.
Register and learn more at: schoolofthought.info
National Automotive Careers Week runs until Friday 11th April
Introducing Our New Investor Pack: A Clearer Path to Supporting AutoRaise
Over the past six months, AutoRaise has undergone a major transformation. With a new leadership team in place, refreshed ambitions, and a growing national presence, we’re ready to take our impact to the next level—and we’re inviting our network to be part of that journey.
To help potential supporters understand what we do, why it matters, and how they can make a difference, we’re proud to launch our brand-new Investor Pack.
What’s inside?
- A clear overview of who we are and what we do—from matching apprentices with employers to lobbying for reform.
- An introduction to our Mission Possible targets, including:
- Recruiting 2,000 new apprentices by 2027
- Lowering the average age of technicians to under 40
- Raising retention rates to over 80%
- Details on how our bursary programme and digital toolkits are helping repairers take on and keep apprentices.
- Information on our Levy Flow service, helping unspent apprenticeship levy funding reach the businesses that need it most.
- Real guidance on how to get involved—whether through donations, levy transfers, event sponsorship, or ongoing support.
A better offer for investors
Supporters receive tailored impact reports, invitations to our annual AGM, and opportunities to be visibly aligned with a powerful industry cause.
As we continue building partnerships across the sector, this new pack gives businesses and organisations everything they need to take that first step. Find out more on our partner page.
Opportunity Alert
We have cohort of young people from Sandwell College who have successfully completed their Level 3 Body & Paint and Mechanical City & Guilds qualifications.
Now, they’re looking for that vital next step – a real opportunity to grow their careers through apprenticeships in our industry.
We’re calling on the vehicle repair community to get involved.
Do you have a potential opening in your business?
Know a repairer in your network who might be hiring?
Even placing a handful of these candidates sends a clear message: we back young talent.
To find out more or request the candidate list, contact: enquiries@autoraise.co.uk or send us a message here.
Alex Hits 40! Another Two Triathlons Completed for Charity
He’s done it—Alex has now completed 40 triathlons, each one combining endurance, community, and a brilliant dose of humour and humanity.
His latest two adventures took him through Wrexham and Newport, with stunning routes, early starts, and (inevitably) a well-earned chippy at the end!
#39 – Wrexham 27 March 2025
Alex kicked off the day with networking in Holywell, spreading the word about the charities he’s supporting—including AutoRaise.
Then it was straight to Wrexham Water World, where he had the pool to himself—apart from a lively water polo game next door.
No sign of Ryan Reynolds or Rob McElhenney as he cycled past Wrexham FC, but the route made up for it:
A climb past Minera moorland, sweeping views over World’s End, Llandegla Forest, and the Offa’s Dyke Path.
He crossed the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, then wrapped up with an efficient city run… and, yes, a chip shop too tempting to ignore. Well earned!
#40 – Newport 3 April 2025
This one included a full day of meetings in Evesham—then straight onto the bike in late afternoon sunshine.
His route along the River Usk and Abercarn to Pontywaun Canal included a detour past the Prince of Wales pub (no time to stop!) and the 14 Locks climb—pushing the total distance to 53km.
He finished at Newport Castle, then ran a scenic 10k through the city as the lights came on across the bridges, spurred on by friendly waves from fellow runners.
Why It Matters
Alex’s triathlon journey isn’t just personal—it’s purposeful.
Every mile helps raise awareness and support for charities like AutoRaise, connecting effort to impact and showcasing the power of resilience, consistency, and community.
Huge thanks to Alex for continuing to fly the flag – and for reminding us that a little sweat goes a long way in changing lives.
PARTNER UPDATE: Thatcham Research
EV Alert: Is the Skills Gap About to Get Worse?
Our partners at Thatcham Research have just launched an important campaign we think everyone in the industry should pay attention to.
It’s called EV Alert—and it highlights a critical new skills challenge for the vehicle repair sector.
As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road continues to rise, the number of technicians trained to repair them simply isn’t keeping up.
According to Thatcham, only 1 in 59 technicians is currently qualified to work safely on EVs. That’s a huge gap—and one that’s growing fast.
Why This Matters
With EV ownership increasing rapidly—and over 20% of new cars now electric—the shortage of trained technicians could soon affect:
- Repair times
- Workshop safety
- Customer experience
- And even insurance claim efficiency
Thatcham’s message is clear: if we don’t act now, the skills crisis we’re already tackling in body repair could be eclipsed by a growing gap in EV capability.
What They’re Asking For
The EV Alert campaign is calling on the industry to:
- Recognise the urgency of EV-specific training
- Invest in upskilling existing technicians
- Support new entrants (apprentices!) into the EV-ready workforce
As AutoRaise continues to advocate for high-quality apprenticeships, this campaign strengthens the case for supporting young people into future-focused training pathways.
Learn More
You can read the full story and get involved at: https://news.thatcham.org/ev-alert/
This is about making sure the next generation is not just ready for today’s vehicles – but tomorrow’s too.
Record-Breaking Year for the 2025 Bodyshop Awards
Nominations for the Bodyshop Awards 2025 and 30 Under 30 officially closed on 31st March—and the results are in…
It’s a record-breaking year!
For the first time ever, there were more than 100 nominations across the three apprentice categories: MET, Panel and Paint. This is a huge milestone and a powerful sign of just how much incredible young talent is emerging in our industry.
We’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate the next generation—and we’ll be watching closely as this year’s finalists are announced.
What’s Your Story?
Do you have news, photos, or stories you’d love to share? We want to hear from you! Whether it’s an apprentice success story, a workshop milestone, or an event you’ve been part of, your contributions help us showcase the amazing work happening in our community. Send in your highlights to newsletter@autoraise.co.uk and share your news with us.
