Telecoms giant BT has announced millions of pounds in apprenticeship funding aimed at supporting smaller companies, charities and public sector organisations across England.

BT Group has partnered with training provider Babington to transfer up to £4 million from its apprenticeship levy funds to help train new apprentices and upskill existing workforces.

BT said the fund could support up to 550 apprentices.

Chris Sims, managing director for small and medium business (SMEs) at BT, said: “SMEs make a significant contribution to our economy, but their uptake of apprenticeships is low.

This collaboration has the potential to make a real difference in addressing skills gaps and supporting business growth across England

“By sharing up to £4 million from our apprenticeship levy funds, we’re giving these businesses the financial support they need to invest in talent.

“This not only helps create a more skilled, diverse and competitive workforce, it also provides SMEs with additional resources to grow and scale their business.

“The apprenticeship programme at BT has not only shaped our workforce, it has also helped set industry standards.”

Jen Bramley, chief executive of Babington, said: “Our expertise in apprenticeships and training will ensure that SMEs can navigate the process smoothly and connect with high-quality training providers.

“This collaboration has the potential to make a real difference in addressing skills gaps and supporting business growth across England.”

BT said a key focus of the initiative will be digital skills development, reflecting its emphasis on technology and innovation in its apprenticeship programmes.

The fund is open to SMEs, charities and public sector organisations across England, including the NHS, focusing on apprentices aged 22 and older.

It aims to support local economic growth, reduce the digital divide and enhance social mobility by providing quick access to apprenticeship funding.

BT has recruited more than 3,000 apprentices and graduates over the past five years and earlier this year announced plans to hire a further 500 for its September intake.