STROUD District Council has pledged to help unemployed young people find work as part of the £2billion Government-backed Kickstart Scheme.
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding for employers to create job placements for 16-24 year-olds who are claiming Universal Credit and are at risk of long term unemployment.
Stroud District Council is a Kickstart gateway organisation and will support businesses in their Kickstart application. Businesses that offer more than 30 Kickstart placements can apply directly to the Government.
For each new job that is created under the scheme, employers will receive:
• 100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week for a total of six months
• Associated employer National Insurance contributions
• Employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions
• A grant of £1,500 per job placement for set up and training costs.
Amy Beckett, Stroud District Council’s Senior Economic Development Specialist said:“The Kickstart Scheme will give businesses in the Stroud district the opportunity to grow with no financial risk to themselves, as well as the chance to change the life of a young person in their community.”
Cllr Doina Cornell, Leader of Stroud District Council added: “Supporting our local economy and local people and businesses most affected by the pandemic is a key part of Stroud District Council’s plan for recovery from covid19. The pandemic has impacted young people especially around finding entry level jobs, so I’m really pleased we’re able to give this practical help, as well as working in partnership with local businesses to take on and train local young people. We are also partnering with Stroud College to offer training and development, so young people will get the long term benefit and give them opportunities otherwise not available.”
All employers, irrespective of size and sector can join the scheme.
Businesses can find out more about the Kickstart Scheme here: https://www.stroud.gov.uk/business/support-for-business/kickstart
Young people can apply for placements here: https://jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/kickstart/