Young people get ‘kickstart’ as government targets labour boost
The UK government has launched its £2 billion Kickstart aimed at helping young people into work as the labour market remains strangled by the coronavirus pandemic.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the programme, which will create thousands of new roles nationwide, will help youngsters aged between 16 and 24 who could be “left behind” following the crisis.
Under the scheme, employers will be able to offer young people on Universal Credit state-subsidised work placements for six months.
Businesses are able sign up to use the scheme from today, with the state also paying employers £1,500 to set up support and training for people on a Kickstar t placement.
Mr Sunak said: “This isn’t just about kickstarting our country’ s economy. It is an opportunity to kick start the careers of thousands of young people who could other wise 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.”
The government will pay 100 percent of the National Minimum Wage dependent on age, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week for those on the scheme.
Major employers including Tesco have signed up to offer jobs through the scheme, it said.