Derrick Murphy, leader of Norfolk County Council.

Business bosses keen to get involved in a £3m scheme to create more apprenticeships in Norfolk have been urged to register their interest in the initiative.

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As part of its budget for the next financial year, Norfolk County Council is investing in a package of measures to boost apprenticeship opportunities and tackle youth unemployment.

Small and medium sized enterprises will be able to bid for cash from a £3m council-funded pot which will subsidise the wages of apprentices.

Derrick Murphy, Norfolk County Council leader, said: “Last week was National Apprenticeship Week and the Prime Minister told of the national desire to make apprenticeships a ‘gold standard option for ambitious young people’

“We share that desire in Norfolk and have been working for some time on an investment package that will complement national initiatives, but will tackle the some of the challenges faced by our young people and businesses here in Norfolk.

“Three million pounds is earmarked for a fund specifically to enable local small and medium sized enterprises to grow – the very businesses at the heart of Norfolk’s economy.”

Whilst the criteria is still to be set by the council, around 400 apprenticeship positions, of at least one year, are envisaged to be created over two years.

Small and medium sized businesses which want to register an early expression of interest should email apprenticeships@norfolk.gov.uk