HELENSBURGH'S MSP has called on Argyll and Bute Council to do more to encourage women and girls into apprenticeships.

The call from Jackie Baillie comes after figures show that the number of women and girls completing apprenticeships in both local authorities has fallen.

The figures, which were released via a parliamentary question, show that between the peak of 2013/14 and 2017/18 the number of female apprentices in Argyll and Bute fell from 113 to 106.

In neighbouring West Dunbartonshire the number also fell, from 226 to 172.

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The news comes as figures from the Scottish Parliament’s Information Centre (SPICe) show that over the same period, the SNP government has cut council budgets by 7.5 per cent.

“It is clear that cuts to council budgets are having an impact on their ability to support apprenticeships.

“At a time of austerity, it is crucial that we are taking every step possible to ensure that job opportunities are available, especially for women and girls.

"We must also consider how we tackle factors like the rising cost of living as some apprentices are simply unable to afford to finish their placement.

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“I would urge Argyll and Bute Council to do everything they can to support apprentices and encourage more women to come forward.

"It would be helpful if they could also look at additional measures they can take to ensure that apprentices can complete their courses.”

A spokesman for Argyll and Bute Council said: “Apprenticeships with the council are of course open to male and female applicants, with many of our men and women apprentices excelling in their roles.

"We are committed to helping our young people flourish, and apprenticeships equip them with skills, experience and knowledge of the council’s work that mean they have options in building a career with us.

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"It is vital we plan ahead to ensure the council can attract and retain the skills we need to support our communities and area."

More information on the council's apprenticeship scheme can be found online at argyll-bute.gov.uk/modern-apprenticeships.