New Employer Incentives: What You Need to Know

Employers in the UK can already receive a £1,000 incentive payment for hiring an apprentice aged 16 to 18 (or 19-25 with an EHCP). This incentive is paid in two instalments of £500, at 90 days and at the 12 months point. Additionally employers are not required to pay National Insurance contributions for apprentices under the age of 25.

From July 2026 an additional incentive payment of £2,000.00 per apprentice is available to small and medium sized employers hiring a young person aged between 16 to 24. This is part of a broader push by government to increase youth unemployment and apprenticeship uptake. We are awaiting further guidance from government as to when the new incentive will be paid, we know the first payment is likely in October, if the new apprentice has started in July, but as yet there are no published schedules from DWP/ DfE.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Choosing Collinge & Co Training means choosing a partner with over 40 years of experience, proven results, and a genuine commitment to developing exceptional hairdressers. Whether you're considering taking on your first hairdressing apprentice or you're an experienced employer looking for a training provider that understands your needs, we're here to support you.

To find out more about our employer services or to discuss taking on an apprentice, you can contact our Employer Relationship & Recruitment Officers Emma (07760749633) or Laura (07587779463), call us on 0151 709 5942, or email training@collingeandco.com. You can also complete our Request for Training Services form, and a member of our training team will get in touch with you.

Visit us at Collinge & Co Training, 99 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4HF, or find more information at collingeandco.com/apprenticeships.