The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals( CIPP ) expressed concern after new research showed that almost 60% of payroll teams do not hire apprentices – with more than a 25% of respondents stating hiring an apprentice wasn’t on their radar.
One third of respondents admitted that they didn’t know where to begin.
In the UK, the apprenticeship levy is intended to help businesses develop training programmes. However, billions of pounds have been returned by the Treasury in levy money since 2017. The CIPP (which represents payroll, pensions and reward professionals) is calling for payroll departments to investigate apprenticeship opportunities to develop vital skills.
Payroll: It’s Important
Jason Davenport, Chief executive officer of CIPP, encouraged payroll teams and their managers to take into consideration the options for funding apprenticeships.
Payroll is more than just processing salaries. “Many other departments depend on the information provided by their payroll team every day,” he explained. They are the heartbeat of any organization, supporting employees, analyzing data to gain business insight, and finding ways to improve efficiency.
Apprenticeships can be a great way to develop new talent, regardless of age or level.
Davenport said that apprenticeships are a great way to learn on the job, increase staff retention, improve morale, and promote diversity. He encouraged businesses to explore funding options available, especially the apprenticeship levy as a way of strengthening expertise.
Payroll is a vital part of business operations. Errors can be disastrous. In a survey conducted by Remote in September 2024, nearly half of UK workers reported having experienced payroll errors the year before. A survey found that 42 percent reported a negative effect on their relationship with the employer after a payroll mistake.
The CIPP believes that apprenticeships are a great way to develop a motivated and skilled workforce.
