Somerset Chamber of Commerce is supporting the Department for Works and Pensions and the Government by acting as an official representative to help small businesses get involved in the Kickstart Scheme.
The scheme enables employers to offer Government-subsidised work placements for young people aged between 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
Businesses which want to create fewer than 30 placements should complete the online application form and Somerset Chamber will submit the details on their behalf. Companies which are creating 30 or more placements can apply directly to the Government.
The Kickstart Scheme aims to create high-quality, six-month work placements for young people. The Government will fund 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours per week, including employer National Insurance and minimum automatic enrolment contributions. In addition, businesses of all sizes can apply for £1,500 per job placement to cover set-up costs and work readiness training such as life skills and employability support.
Jane Gratton, the British Chambers of Commerce’s Head of People Policy, said: “At a time when cashflow is tight, this fully funded scheme will help employers bring young people into the workplace and develop new talent for the future.
“To be successful, Kickstart needs to create long-term, quality employment opportunities and ensure that both businesses and employees are fully supported throughout the placement.
“Rooted in local business communities, Chambers of Commerce understand employers’ growth aspirations, and will be working to bring companies and young people together to create new jobs.”
More information about eligibility for the scheme is available online here.
Join Somerset Chamber of Commerce to give your business a stronger voice both locally, regionally and nationally. Combined with local town chambers, we represent over 2,000 businesses across Somerset with a direct line to policy-makers at all levels.
