15/03/2013

Ladbrokes plc has announced the launch of its first apprenticeship scheme following a successful pilot scheme in two regions of the UK.

50 apprentices started on the pilot scheme in two regions, the South Coast and the Midlands, in November. The scheme has been so successful that Ladbrokes has now announced it will extend its apprenticeship scheme to South Yorkshire, Scotland and London with a target of 200 apprentices by the end of 2013.

Apprentices are given training as part of Ladbrokes 'Get Set!' training programme with successful trainees receiving accredited training in customer service, literacy and numeracy as well as a dedicated course developed by Ladbrokes on Responsible Gambling. Ladbrokes is working with Lifetime Training, one of the UK's top training providers, who will assess and deliver individual coaching needs.

Commenting on the news Ladbrokes Chief Executive Richard Glynn said: "We are pleased to be extending our first ever apprenticeship scheme to 200 people, offering quality, accredited training to new employees. This is more important than ever given the current employment situation for young people."

The launch of the apprenticeship programme follows Ladbrokes support for a new employment service in the Dearne Valley, operated by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust.

Ladbrokes has supplied funding for two full time counsellors to extend support to local unemployed families under the Family Employment Initiative. The project, which has successfully supported over 2,000 coalfield residents into employment since it began operating in 2006 will provide families in the Dearne Valley with access to one to one counselling and support to assist them in finding training and employment.

-ENDS-

For further information contact:

Ciaran O'Brien Corporate and Government Affairs Director +44 (0) 7976 180 173
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