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<p>We are committed to ensuring that apprenticeships are accessible diverse range
of people including young people with learning difficulties or disabilities.</p><p>We
have supported the production of an employer toolkit and a Special Educational Needs
(SEN) section of the Education and Training Foundation Excellence Gateway.</p><p>To
encourage employers to hire apprentices, the Government funds apprenticeship training
for all 16-18 year olds. This level of funding is extended for apprentices who have
an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC Plan) aged 19-24. In addition, providers can
access Learning Support funding to help apprentices who have a learning difficulty
and/or disability.</p><p>A Taskforce, led by my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool
North and Cleveleys (Paul Maynard), has been looking at issues around apprenticeships
for people with learning difficulties or disabilities. The Taskforce is currently
considering its recommendations.</p><p>Apprenticeships are safeguarded by the same
equality duties under the Equality Act (2010) as any other employment. We encourage
the use of the range of reasonable adjustments available so apprentices with special
educational needs and disabilities (who can apply for Access to Work funding) can
demonstrate what they know and can do.</p>
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