The government has launched its £2 billion Kickstart work scheme which aims to help young people into employment.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the programme, which will create thousands of new roles nationwide, will help youngsters aged between 16-24 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.
As of July there were almost 538,000 young people aged 24 and under on Universal Credit, a rise of around 250,000 from March.
Businesses are able sign up to use the scheme from Wednesday, with the state also paying employers £1500 to set up support and training for people on a Kickstart placement.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: “This isn’t just about kickstarting our country’s economy – it is an opportunity to kickstart the careers of thousands of young people who could otherwise 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% of the National Minimum Wage dependent on age, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week for those on the scheme.
