Help for young to start new job

A MSP this week urged young people to apply for the Job Start Payment if they are starting a new job after a period of unemployment.

The payment is available for 16 to 24-year-olds who have been on certain benefits for six months or more.

Eligible young people can apply for the one-off payment worth £252.50, or £404 if they have children.

The payment will help with the costs of starting a job including travel, new clothes or childcare.

Siobhian Brown, MSP for Ayr, said: “The pandemic has been particularly difficult for young people in Ayr and the Job Start Payment is a fantastic source of support for young people to ensure they can get off to a good start in a new job.

“Starting a new job can be very expensive for young people when you take into consideration the costs of travel, buying clothes and other costs associated with a new job.

“I would encourage all young people who have been unemployed for a long period of time and are starting a new job, or have recently started one to apply for this support.”