The BGC represents betting shops, casinos and the online gambling sector, and its report from earlier this year shows it supported 119,000 jobs (61,000 direct employers and 58,000 in the supply chain). One-fifth of the jobs are for young people under 25, and almost half are for people just under 35.
The body generates £4.5bn ($6.2bn) per year in tax and contributed £7.7bn in gross value to the UK economy in 2019.
Other regulated operators are also joining the Government’s scheme to provide more job opportunities for people between 16 and 24 years of age; their offers vary from graduate recruitment schemes to career paths for people straight out of university.
Michael Dugher, BGC Chief Executive, said the Plan For Jobs program proves the regulated industry is ready to help the economy recover from Covid.
"Between now and 2025, we pledge to offer a further 5,000 apprenticeships – crucial opportunities for young people to take their first step on the career ladder," said Dugher. "Young people have been hardest hit by the pandemic – this pledge is an important step in enabling them to be a part of the wider recovery."
He noted that the pandemic had a big impact on all markets, but that the BGC is ready to play its part by giving skilled young people the opportunities they need to thrive.
