I am so pleased that today marks the start of the Government’s new Kickstart Scheme, which is set to create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people. As the economy recovers, getting young people who are most at risk of long-term unemployment into new jobs will be key. Under the Kickstart Scheme, those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and unlikely to soon enter work can apply for six-month placements across a range of different sectors.
Employers can now apply for funding under the scheme, which will cover 100 per cent of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated National Insurance and pension contributions. There will also be extra funding to support young people to build their experience and help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job.
It comes as part of the Government’s Plan for Jobs – aimed at creating, supporting and protecting jobs in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
More information about the Kickstart Scheme can be found here, with specific guidance for employers who are considering applying and young people who are interested.