Kickstart Scheme opens for applications

02 Sep 2020

The government's £2 billion Kickstart Scheme is now open for employer applications.

The scheme is part of the Plan for Jobs announced during Chancellor Rishi Sunak's July Summer Economic Update.

The Kickstart Scheme aims to create work placements for young people who are at risk of becoming unemployed for the long-term. Businesses can join the scheme, with the government paying employers £1,500 to help set up support and training.

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

Employers will receive funding for 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer national insurance contributions (NICs) and employer minimum auto-enrolment pension contributions.

The Chancellor said: 'This isn't just about kickstarting our country's economy – it is an opportunity to kickstart the careers of thousands of young people who could otherwise be left behind as a result of the pandemic.

'The scheme will open the door to a brighter future for a new generation and ensure the UK bounces back stronger as a country.'

More information on the scheme can be found here.