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Kickstarter Scheme - Register Now!

• September 16, 2020

The government is urging firms to join a scheme to create work placements for younger people who face the greatest risk of finding themselves in long-term unemployment, just as many firms are shrinking their workforces.

Businesses can now start registering for the scheme from Wednesday, with the government paying employers £1,500 to arrange ongoing advice and training.

How does it work?

Selected out-of-work young people will be offered six-month work placements, for at least 25 hours a week. The scheme is designed to be a steppingstone to further employment, and provide an opportunity for them to gain experience, confidence and transferable skills.

Who will it help?

Anyone between the age of 16 and 24 who is out-of-work and claiming Universal Credit may be eligible.

Jobcentre staff will identify people at risk of long-term unemployment to refer to the scheme and the government aims to have the first placements on offer from November.

Who is paying?

The government will fund every Kickstart job – paying 100% of the age-relevant National Minimum Wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for a 25-hour every week.

Employers can top up pay out of their own pockets or extend the hours if they wish.

In addition, the government is offering employers £1,500 to set up support and training for those taking part and has put a £2bn price tag on the scheme, which is said to be able to fund over 250,000 placements.

The scheme will run till at the very least December 2021 and covers the entire of the UK.

What do you need to do?

The Scheme is directly open for employers seeking 30 placements or more. Employers inquisitive about providing fewer than 30 Kickstart roles ought to apply by means of a consultant organisation.

If you are interested in taking part in the Kickstart scheme please click the below link and a member of our team will give you a call to discuss your requirements:

For general recruitment advice please do give us a call on 0207 043 4629 or via email at kickstarter@thegraduateproject.co.uk and The Graduate Project will be happy to help.