West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin this week gave her backing to a national scheme to increase the number of apprenticeships in the country. The MP was speaking after meeting apprentices taken on at Malvern defence company Dytecna. The company employs a small group of apprentices each year to work in their Malvern factory. Apprenticeships allow young people to get training in a specific career while also continuing their learning towards qualifications. The National Apprenticeship Service will next month launch a county-wide campaign to encourage companies to take on apprentices. Employers looking for more information can find out more at www.apprenticeships.org.uk. Harriett commented: “There are many strong engineering and manufacturing companies in the county who could benefit from taking on an apprentice. “It is a very effective way of creating jobs and investing in the local community and most apprentices turn into excellent employees. “The last budget increased the number of apprenticeship opportunities across the country and I am eager to help local firms to take advantage of this. “At a time when youth unemployment is a problem, this apprenticeship programme is a very effective way to create jobs and give local people an opportunity to start a worthwhile and rewarding career.”