A PROGRAMME to create apprenticeships across Yorkshire, including Bradford, has helped almost 3,000 businesses in the region.

The Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership’s (LEP) apprenticeship programme for 16 to 24-year-olds started in January 2013 with its first phase completed in March this year.

It has supported 2,941 businesses and created 2,367 new apprenticeships. The first phase of the programme was a £4.6 million funded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills Funding Agency.

The project included eight apprenticeship hubs in areas in Yorkshire including Bradford and Kirklees.

Two apprenticeship training agencies were also set up in Bradford and Leeds.

Councillor Peter Box, chairman of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, said: “I’m delighted that, through this programme, we’ve been able to support young people on the pathway to exciting career opportunities, whilst helping businesses to meet their needs for skilled staff.

“I hope many more employers and young people take advantage of these opportunities as we move forward into the next phase.”