Give your company a 'Kickstart' 

But the Kickstart Scheme launched by the UK Government last year is one scheme available to help businesses create new jobs for young people.

Have you heard of the Kickstart Scheme but not sure what the benefits are and if it is something that your business should be involved in? Well, we have gathered some key information for you so read on to learn more!

What is the Kickstart Scheme?

You can use the Kickstart Scheme to create new job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

What does the scheme entail?

• The placements are open to those aged 16 to 24. The placements cannot replace planned vacancies or cause existing staff to be made redundant or reduce their hours/pay.
• The placement must be a minimum of 25 hours per week, for 6 months.
• Employers can spread the start date of the job placements up until the end of December 2021.

What funding is available?

The funding available will cover:

• 100% of the National Minimum Wage (or the National Living Wage depending on the age of the participant) for 25 hours per week for a total of 6 months.
• Associated employer National Insurance contributions.  
• Employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions

The employer may offer a higher salary and more hours, but the scheme will not cover the additional cost. Further funding is also available for training and support to enable young people on the scheme to gain employment in the future.

Who can apply?

The first thing you might notice is that the Kickstart Scheme is open to companies or organizations that can only offer a minimum of 30 job placements. However, if you are not able to create 30 new jobs, you can partner with other organizations and businesses in your area by contacting a Kickstart Scheme representative in Wales.

In Wales, WCVA assists voluntary organizations that may not otherwise be large enough to qualify for the scheme.