The government’s new Kickstart scheme has now opened for employer applications. The scheme consists of employers offering six-month job placements for young people aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long term unemployment. The government will pay 100% of the age-relevant National Minimum Wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week. Employers will be able to top up this wage, while the government will also pay employers £1500 to set up support and training for people on a Kickstart Scheme placement, as well as helping pay for uniforms and other set up costs. The scheme is initially open until December 2021, with the option of being extended. Some sector response to the Kickstart Scheme can be read here.
Employers can check if the can apply for a grant through the scheme here and detailed guidance on the application process is here. A Kickstart Scheme application must be for a minimum of 30 job placements. If a single employer cannot provide this many job placements, they can join a group of other employers, nominating a representative for the group to submit the application or register their interest with existing representatives. There is guidance on becoming a representative of a group of employers. If employers need help with the Kickstart Scheme process, they can contact their local employer contact.
Promotional materials have been developed to promote the Kickstart Scheme to employers and potential job placement participants. Resources have also been developed for employers who have been offered funding through the scheme to use to show their support for the scheme. The DWP has created a special page for young people about the scheme on the jobhelp website. Some of the above guidance has been collated here.
