Large businesses will be able to pledge funds to smaller businesses through a new government service, to help create and recruit for more apprenticeship opportunities.

The online service, which is now available, will make it easier for large employers that pay the apprenticeship levy to spend their levy funds.

Large employers can already transfer up to 25% of their annual levy pot to support other employers to take on apprentices. Many employers have already taken advantage of this opportunity including Amazon, Co-op and Lloyds Banking to support other businesses with a funding boost.