A £51 million project which aims to get more young people into work across the Black Country has given its backing to National Apprenticeship Week.

Running until Sunday (March 12), this year’s apprenticeship week celebrations mark the 10th anniversary of the scheme which encourages people to choose apprenticeships as a fast-track to a career.

The Black Country Impact programme, which is made up of five partners from Dudley Council, Sandwell Council, Walsall Council, Wolverhampton Council and Black Country Talent Match, is this week raising awareness of apprenticeships as a ladder of opportunity for young adults in the region.

Councillor Pete Lowe, leader of Dudley Council, said: “There has never been a better time to employ an apprentice or a trainee.

“Hiring apprentices helps businesses to grow their own talent by developing a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

“The Black Country Impact combines these benefits with a range of tailored service to help both 16 to 29 year olds across the region and local employers.

“The bottom line is that young people within our borough and wider benefit from improved employment prospects.”

The Black Country Impact funders have enabled a package of up to £51 million to be made available for young adults across the Black Country after gathering funding from the European Union’s European Social Fund, the Youth Employment Initiative, and through Talent Match funders, the Big Lottery Fund.

For more information about apprenticeships in the region, as well as taking on an apprentice, visit www.dudley.gov.uk/bcimpact or call 01384 811477.