We know the reality. You want to bring in an apprentice. You know your team needs fresh talent, and you know the industry depends on it.
But then there’s the cost.
Tools. Equipment. The extra time it takes to train someone up. It all adds up. And for small bodyshops, that’s sometimes the dealbreaker.
That’s why we’ve launched the AutoRaise Bursary Fund—to take the financial strain off small repairers and make hiring an apprentice possible. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden during the critical first six months of employing an apprentice by providing funding equivalent to £7,500 per eligible employer.
Receive funding support to cover key costs like tools and essential training expenses.
Designed for small, independent bodyshops that need a little extra help to bring in fresh talent.
A step towards real change—because growing your workforce shouldn’t be a financial risk.
If cost has been holding you back, this is for you.
Eligibility
The scheme is specifically tailored for businesses with an annual turnover of less than £2.5 million, making it an ideal opportunity for independent garages and body shops looking to invest in fresh talent whilst managing costs effectively.
By partnering with top education providers, including Emtec, Blackpool and Fylde College, and Thatcham Research, we’re committed to developing skilled professionals in Vehicle Damage Assessors (VDA), Automotive Repair Technicians (ART), Panel, Mechanical, Electrical and Trim (MET) Technicians and Paint specialisations.
- To verify eligibility, businesses will need to provide a year’s summary of accounts to confirm their turnover is below the £2.5 million threshold.
- Business must provide a year’s summary of accounts to verify financial eligibility.
- Apprentice must be enrolled in one of the specified programmes: VDA, ART, Panel, MET or Paint.
- Training must be delivered through one of the participating education providers: Emtec, Blackpool and Fylde College, or Thatcham Research.
- Apprentice must remain continuously employed for the full 6-month period to receive the complete bursary.
If you would like to know more about the bursary, or to apply, please email: enquiries@autoraise.co.uk or use the form below to send us your enquiry.
