Kickstart Scheme

You may be able to benefit from funding under the Kickstart Scheme if you are looking to create new jobs for young people. Information on the scheme can be found in the Kickstart Scheme Employer Prospectus.

Nature of the scheme

The scheme aims to create jobs for young people who are unemployed. The job must be a new job and must be for at least 25 hours a week for six months. The job cannot replace existing or planned vacancies, or cause existing employees, apprentices or contractors to lose their jobs or to have their hours reduced. In addition, you must help the young person to become more employable, for example, by helping them to develop their skills in the workplace or providing support with job applications and interview preparation.

Funding

Employers using the scheme can apply for funding, which will cover:

• 25 hours at the National Living Wage or National Minimum Wage appropriate for the person's age;
• any associated employer's National Insurance;
• minimum automatic enrolment pension contributions; plus
• a grant of £1,500 to cover set-up costs and employability support.

Apply online

Applications can be made online or via a Kickstart Gateway.

Find out more

If you would like to know more about the scheme and whether it is for you, we can help.