Lifeline launched to aid apprentices during COVID-19 crisis

| 29 Apr 2020
Classic & Sports Car – Lifeline launched to aid apprentices during COVID-19 crisis

With many apprenticeships in the classic-car world hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, an initiative has been launched to support and encourage those affected.

A joint enterprise between HERO ERA, via its arm HERO2Help, and charity partner StarterMotor, Apprentice Lifeline hopes to provide both financial and practical assistance.

Some young apprentices have lost placements, others are in employment but may not be able to resume work, plus many need funding to sustain a portion of their living costs.

“They are the future lifeblood of the industry,” said Patrick Burke, MD of HERO Events, “we need to help during this trying time.”

In addition, looking to the future, it’s hoped that this programme will help increase the number of apprenticeship placements available.

Classic & Sports Car – Lifeline launched to aid apprentices during COVID-19 crisis

The campaign also seeks to encourage and maintain apprentices’ enthusiasm, hope and ambition during lockdown by encouraging and facilitating projects and tuition, be that online or getting hands-on at home to keep their new-found skills fresh, if the necessary space and equipment are available.

One scheme will see HERO ERA officials provide rally marshalling training, for which apprentices will receive a certificate and the chance to have a go for real on an event, when conditions permit.

The overriding aim is to keep those starting out in the classic-car world motivated, and to give them the support to secure their future in the historic-motoring industry.

Any firms in the vintage and classic community who could give apprentices real-world experience after lockdown are encouraged to get in touch, likewise any specialists able to offer remote training or other assistance – the best way to do this is by email.

Apprentice Lifeline has also set up a fundraising page and each donor will be entered into a prize draw.

“Our objective is straight forward – to put young people in old cars, whether they are apprentices or simply enjoying driving them. If we don’t succeed our whole community will begin to disappear,” added David Withers, Chief Executive of StarterMotor.


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