The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has detailed its role in the UK’s post-COVID economic recovery plan, with plans to invest in apprenticeships and training opportunities for young people.

Under its plans, the BGC and its members have pledged to launch 5,000 apprenticeships for young people looking to work in the British betting and gaming industry between now and 2025. 

The BGC aims to support the UK government’s Plan for Jobs via the initiative, with regulated operators also signing up for the Kick Start scheme to provide job opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds currently receiving universal credit. 

Additionally, the trade standards body’s members intend to launch a graduate recruitment scheme for those just leaving university. 

“As the UK emerges from the pandemic, creating more good jobs and training for young people will be more important than ever before,” said Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the BGC.

“The Government’s own Plan for Jobs is a fantastic opportunity to create more apprenticeships and traineeships, tackle unemployment, increase productivity plus support British business overseas through Global Britain.

“BGC members alone already support nearly 120,000 jobs in world-leading tech through online gaming and bingo, in hospitality, tourism and entertainment through casinos, and across our hard-pressed high street jobs through modern betting shops. Our industry stands ready to play a key part in the national recovery.”

In its release, the BGC reiterated its promotion of the UK betting and gaming industry’s economic contribution, with the announcement of the plans occurring ahead of the UK government’s publishing of a white paper relating to the review of the 2005 Gambling Act.

The organisation again detailed the findings of a report by Ernst and Young (EY) earlier this year, which found that UK betting operators generated £4.5 billion in tax and contributed £7.7 billion in gross value added to the British economy in 2019, directly employing 61,000 and indirectly employing 58,000 via its supply chain.

Commenting on the BGC’s new apprenticeship initiative, Dugher continued. “Between now and 2025, we pledge to offer a further 5,000 apprenticeships – crucial opportunities for young people to take their first step on the career ladder. 

“Young people have been hardest hit by the pandemic – this pledge is an important step in enabling them to be a part of the wider recovery.

“The future remains highly uncertain and the impact of the pandemic will be felt for a long time to come. Betting and Gaming Council members are ready to play their part by giving young people – our country’s future – the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.”