YOUNG people often lament the lack of apprenticeships on offer in the UK and certainly in recent years, they have not been as readily available as they have in the past. However, in Times Territory at least, that is all set to change

YOUNG people often lament the lack of apprenticeships on offer in the UK and certainly in recent years, they have not been as readily available as they have in the past.

However, in Times Territory at least, that is all set to change.

For the county council, through its Hertfordshire Works partnership, has managed to secure �800,000 in government cash to help create 365 apprenticeships across Hertfordshire.

A total of 150 positions will be created in the private sector, with a further 150 in the public sector.

An additional 65 'special' apprenticeships will also be created to help vulnerable people, such as those with learning difficulties, into work.

Cllr David Lloyd, executive member for resources and economic well-being, said: "We want to do all we can to support young people during these difficult economic times.

"Despite the fact the number of young people in Hertfordshire who are not in education or training is below the national average, it is still of concern to us that nearly 1,500 people aged 16 to 18 are unemployed and in some areas these figures are rising at a worrying rate.

He said: "With theses figures increasing, both locally and nationally, there is clearly a growing need to help people in this age group into full-time employment."

He added: "The apprenticeships will cover an extensive range of jobs including marketing, administration, finance, social care, health care, retail, engineering, IT and work with environmental organisations.

"By offering such a wide range we hope they will appeal to as many young people as possible."

The new apprenticeships will be promoted through existing schemes such as Youth Connexions and the National Apprenticeship Service.

For more information, call Youth Connexions on 01992 901540.