With businesses now looking towards some potential dates for reopening, recruitment plans are starting to tentatively get back on track. But with reduced profits and cash flow within businesses, new appointments are being approached with caution.
However, many businesses are now applying for the government Kickstart scheme where businesses can create placements for young people (16-24) aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. They will be available across a range of different sectors in England, Scotland and Wales.
Employers will receive funding for 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum auto-enrolment pension contributions. With funding available to support these placements, it’s an effective way for businesses to grow their workforce and develop young workers.
There will also be extra funding to support young people to build their experience and help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job.
The scheme will allow employees to create job placements for young people. At a time where cashflow is a key concern for businesses, this fully-funded scheme will be welcomed by those businesses looking to bring young people into the workplace and develop new talent for the future and also offer the opportunity to help grow and develop younger workers.
If your organisation would like to apply for the scheme, the first stage of your application must be made via The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, which you can do here
Sharon Smith, CEO of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, commented: “At a time where businesses are looking for alternative ways to fill their employment gaps, this brand new Kickstart Scheme will give businesses access to work-ready young employees and will allow local businesses to help grow and develop talent, in a similar way to how the Apprenticeship scheme has been utilised by businesses.”
“The Chamber are working together with the DWP in order to support the application process for businesses who would like to offer less than 30 placements. I would urge all businesses to apply for this scheme whether they are looking to offer 1 placement or 30, the Chamber will be here to support businesses in accessing this opportunity and the many benefits that this will bring businesses.”
More information on eligibility and how to apply please visit: https://hwchamber.co.uk/support/kickstart-scheme/