Rising 'Ghosting' Phenomenon Worsens Apprenticeship Shortages

Over half of apprenticeship positions remained unfilled in 2023 as businesses face applicant withdrawals and a lack of suitable candidates.

In 2023, 51% of businesses were unable to fill all apprenticeship positions due to a shortage of qualified applicants.
One in four businesses reported that suitable candidates withdrew unexpectedly from apprenticeship agreements last year.
Large companies with over 500 employees frequently cited 'ghosting' as a key reason for unfilled apprenticeship roles.
Small businesses have also seen a rise in 'ghosting,' with 28% experiencing it in 2023 compared to 19% in 2013.
The IAB Establishment Panel attributes financial losses and operational disruptions to this growing trend.