As part of the government’s Plan for Jobs, a new £2 billion Kickstart Scheme will create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country.

The 6 month placements are open to those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long term unemployment. They will be available across a range of different sectors in England, Scotland and Wales. The first placements are likely to be available from November.

There will also be extra funding to support young people to build their experience and help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job.

Employers will receive funding for 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum auto-enrolment pension contributions.

For each ‘Kickstarter’ job, the government will:

Cover the cost of 25 hours’ work a week at the National Minimum Wage

• £4.55 for under 18s
• £6.45 for 18 to 20-year-olds
• £8.20 for 21 to 24-year-olds

Employers will also be able to top up that payment if they wish.