Business group sets recommendations to help small firms recruit

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has outlined recommendations to help small firms recruit talent.

17 Aug 2026

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has outlined recommendations to help small firms recruit talent.

According to the business group, small firms are being 'left behind by the skills system' despite their 'crucial role' in providing opportunities for young people.

Rising employment costs put pressure on businesses to do more with less, the FSB warned. Training is increasingly one of the areas being cut, which, in turn, holds back economic growth.

The FSB has set out an action plan for England to create a national network to help employers find the best training providers and courses. It also outlined recommendations for developing a career matchmaking service and to make the apprenticeship system more accessible for small businesses.

Tina McKenzie, Interim National Chair at the FSB, said: 'Small businesses already do a great job of taking on this fresh talent, but there needs to be a renewed focus by the government on backing small firms and making the process easier for employers.

'It's good to see the new government's focus on technical education, but the skills system must reflect the needs of small businesses. Initiatives like creating a new partnership to link up employers with young people and help them provide work experience, helping find the right courses, and creating a more small business friendly apprenticeship system would be invaluable.'