The government Kickstart Scheme explained

The Kickstart Scheme aims to provide funding to help create new jobs for 16 to 24 year olds on Universal Credit, who are at risk of long term unemployment.  Employers can spread the job start dates up until 31 December 2021.  You’ll get funding until 30 June 2022 if a young person starts their job by 31 December 2021.

How does the Kickstart Scheme work?

The scheme has been designed to create fully subsidised new job placements lasting 6 months for young people. The placements are open to those aged 16-24 who are on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Employers can spread the start date of the job placements up until the end of December 2021. Further funding is available for training and support so that young people on the scheme can get a job in the future.

Who is eligible to apply?

Employers of all sizes can apply for funding which covers:

• 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

How do I apply (application requirements)?

Previously you needed a minimum of 30 job placements in order to apply directly for a grant.  Now you can apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant by either:

• Applying online
• Applying through a Kickstart gateway which is already working with the Kickstart Scheme.  A kickstart gateway is an organisation which already has a Kickstart Scheme agreement with the DWP.
• Find a Kickstart Gateway: https://secure.dwp.gov.uk/find-a-kickstart-gateway

You will need

• Your Companies House reference number or Charity Commission number
• Organisation address and contact details
• Details of the job placements and their location

Use the link below to apply:

https://www.apply-kickstart-grant-employer.service.gov.uk/

For more information please use the link below

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme

If you have any questions about eligibility or how to apply for the scheme please get in touch with your Swindells partner who will be able to advise you further.