A new campaign launched in Oldham aims to create 100 apprenticeships in 100 days, connecting local businesses with young people leaving school and college this summer. The initiative, which started on 21 May and runs through the summer recruitment period, seeks to tackle the borough's high youth unemployment rate while supporting the Government’s Youth Guarantee programme.

Oldham currently has the highest youth unemployment rate in Greater Manchester at 7.5 per cent, and around four per cent of known 16 to 17 year olds are not in education, employment or training (NEET). The campaign is designed to bring employers of all sizes together, whether they are ready to recruit immediately or planning future apprenticeship opportunities.

Financial support of up to £3,000 is available for eligible employers through the Youth Guarantee initiative, while additional incentives include fully funded apprenticeship training for younger apprentices in small businesses, reduced National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, and up to £8,500 for qualifying construction employers through the Construction Industry Training Board.

Oldham College, which sees around 800 apprentices study with it each year across a range of sectors, is providing support throughout the recruitment process. This includes advertising vacancies, candidate matching, and guidance on funding systems. The college says the additional support now available makes it easier for organisations to invest in apprenticeships and build their future workforce.

The campaign is also promoting Foundation Apprenticeships, a more flexible route designed to help employers introduce young people into the workplace gradually. These are aimed at giving businesses and apprentices a structured introduction to the world of work.

Simon Jordan, from Oldham College, said: “Oldham is home to a huge number of talented young people who are ready to start their careers and make a positive contribution to local businesses. There has never been a better time for organisations to consider taking on an apprentice. If employers across Oldham each create just one vacancy, together we can make a real difference to young people across the borough.”

James Kington added: “We want young people in Oldham to have access to good quality opportunities and careers within their own community. ‘100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days’ is about bringing employers, education and local talent together to create real opportunities across Oldham and help build a stronger future workforce for the borough.”

Employers interested in taking part can find more information about the campaign and the support available by contacting Oldham College’s apprenticeship team. The initiative is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, with the college’s advisors on hand to guide them through every step, from hiring to training.

By focusing on local talent and working with established training providers, the campaign aims to give young people a clear pathway into employment while helping businesses develop the skilled staff they need for the future. For a town with the highest youth unemployment in the region, the stakes are high — and the hope is that a collective effort from the business community can turn the tide.