BT Group has unveiled a new multi-million-pound initiative aimed at boosting apprenticeships across England, providing crucial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), charities, and public sector organisations.
The telecoms giant has committed £4 million in apprenticeship funding over an initial four-year period, with the goal of enhancing workforce skills and driving economic growth.
The initiative taps into the apprenticeship levy system, introduced in 2017, which requires businesses with an annual wage bill of over £3 million to contribute towards the training and recruitment of apprentices.
Larger companies like BT also have the option to transfer up to 50% of their levy funds to support other organisations, a move that could benefit hundreds of businesses across the country.
In partnership with apprenticeship training provider Babington, BT will transfer up to £4 million of its levy funds to help SMEs, charities, and public sector organisations train new apprentices. The scheme offers fully funded apprenticeship training, allowing successful applicants to receive support within 20 days of applying.
The apprenticeship fund is expected to support up to 550 apprentices, with the potential to generate a £21 million economic impact. Depending on demand, the fund could be expanded further, offering a significant boost to smaller organisations that often face challenges accessing skilled talent.
Chris Sims, BT Group’s managing director for small and medium businesses, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “SMEs make a significant contribution to our economy, but their uptake of apprenticeships is low. By sharing up to £4 million from our apprenticeship levy funds, we’re giving these businesses the financial support they need to invest in talent.”
Sims added that apprenticeships are a proven way to build a skilled and diverse workforce, and BT’s programme has set industry standards, benefiting both the company and the broader economy.
“This not only helps create a more skilled, diverse, and competitive workforce, it also provides SMEs with additional resources to grow and scale their business,” he said.
Jen Bramley, CEO of Babington, echoed this sentiment, saying: “We are thrilled to partner with BT Group on this transformative project. Our expertise in apprenticeships and training will ensure that SMEs can navigate the process smoothly and connect with high-quality training providers.”
Bramley noted that the collaboration aims to address skills gaps and foster business growth across England, offering smaller organisations the chance to develop their workforce without the financial burden of training costs.
The apprenticeship fund comes at a critical time, as businesses continue to face challenges in recruitment and skills development. By providing financial support and streamlining access to training, BT’s initiative is poised to make a significant impact on the UK’s economic recovery, while supporting the growth and development of SMEs and charitable organisations.
As BT’s programme rolls out, businesses are encouraged to apply and take advantage of the fully funded training opportunities, helping to create a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of an evolving economy.
