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Businesses called on to support new scheme helping young people into work

Business
12:08, Tuesday, 8th September 2020

North Lincolnshire Council is urging local employers to help young people into work by signing up to the Government’s new £2 billion Kickstart scheme.

Businesses who sign up will be able to offer young people aged 16 – 24 who are claiming Universal Credit, a six-month work placement with their wages funded by central government.

This means they will pay 100 per cent of the young person’s age-relevant National Minimum Wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week. Employers can then top this up themselves if they wish.

They will also receive £1,500 for every young person they take on to help cover expenses like training or uniform costs.

Bids must be for a minimum of 30 job placements, but North Lincolnshire Council is applying to be a nominated representative, meaning we will be able to partner with smaller organisations who couldn’t otherwise offer 30 jobs.

If employers are unable to offer this many vacancies, they will be able to partner with the Council to reach the minimum number.

Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m calling on local employers across North Lincolnshire to sign up to provide Kickstart jobs.

“We cannot allow young people to be left behind as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and schemes like this will be vital for creating jobs and giving young people the skills to access them.

“The Government are investing heavily in this scheme and I really want young people from this area to benefit.

“I’m delighted North Lincolnshire council is putting young people are the heart of its plans to build back stronger after the pandemic, and hope as many businesses as possible in our area are able to take part.”

Find out more about the scheme and sign up on the You.gov website. For advice and information contact businessinfo@northlincs.gov.uk or call 01724 297000.