More than 700 small employers and sole traders have signed up to offer placements to people aged between 16 and 24 through the Government’s kickstart scheme.
The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has backed the initiative, which offers placements and a raft of support measures to young people in receipt of universal credit.
Employers can apply to the DWP for funding through the scheme, which covers 100% of the national minimum wage or national living wage for 25 hours a week over six months.
Funding available through the scheme also covers any employers national insurance contributions and workplace pension contributions.
Mike Cherry, chairman at the FSB, said:
“The coronavirus crisis has made it much more difficult for young people to find employment.
“It is vital they are given opportunities to gain workplace experience, so they can go on to have successful careers or even become entrepreneurs themselves.
“Small businesses can be the ideal environment to nurture talent, and this model will enable even the smallest employers to provide placements.”
Speak to us about the kickstart scheme.
