MORE than 120,000 job opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds have now been created through the UK Government’s Kickstart scheme.
The initiative is designed to help young people who are on universal credit, at risk of long-term unemployment into work or have been hit by the economic impact of Covid-19 on the first rung of their career ladder.
The scheme contributes 100% of the national minimum wage for 25 hours per week for a total of six months. Currently, firms must have 30 vacancies open to be eligible, but as of February 3 there will be no threshold.
The UK Government said that the change means it is ‘even simpler’ for employers of all sizes to join the scheme. It added that it will apply ‘rigorous’ checks on training support and finances.
Earlier this month, McTaggart Group announced that 55 positions will be made available in McTaggart Construction through the scheme.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said, “Young people are among the hardest hit in times like these, which is why we’re doing everything we can to ensure they’re not left without hope and opportunity. The Kickstart scheme is central to this. Since opening for applications last Autumn, we’ve worked with some of the most exciting companies to create more than 120,000 Kickstart jobs – which is a huge vote of confidence in our young people at a challenging time.
“With £2 billion available and no limit on the number of places, it’s now easier than ever for businesses across Great Britain to take part. Join us as we harness the talents of the new generation of kickstarters.”
