Kickstart Scheme - Could this be an option for your organisation now that restrictions are reducing?

The Kickstart, was launched in the Government's 'Plan for Jobs' and the scheme is well underway.

Here in the sport sector, as we progress through the re-opening steps together, perhaps now is the time for you to consider if providing a job opportunity through the Kickstart Scheme could be something for your organisation?

The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to create new jobs for 16 to 24 year olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long term unemployment. 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
• any relevant workplace pension contributions (automatic enrolment)
• 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 on 31 December 2021.
• Further funding is available for training and support so that young people on the scheme can get a job in the future.
• Kickstart Scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

There is £1,500 grant per job for setup costs and employability support

The jobs created with Kickstart Scheme funding must be new jobs.

The jobs must not:

• replace existing or planned vacancies
• cause existing employees, apprentices or contractors to lose work or reduce their working hours

The jobs must:

• be a minimum of 25 hours per week, for 6 months
• pay at least the National Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage for the employee's age group
• only require basic training
• Each job needs to help the young person become more employable.

The employability support could include:

• looking for long-term work, including career advice and setting goals
• support with CV and interview preparations
• developing their skills in the workplace.

Following a change in the process employers can sign up to this direct. You are no longer required, as an individual employer, to create a minimum of 30 positions.

To apply as an independently follow this link Kickstart Scheme contacts - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Alternatively contact one of the existing local Gateways in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland:

• Employment Hub - Kickstart scheme | Leicester Employment Hub
• East Midlands Chamber - Contact education and business partnership manager Pieter Eksteen on 07468 474307 or email pieter.eksteen@emc-dnl.co.uk.
• Loughborough College - https://www.loucoll.ac.uk/employers/kickstart
• Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council - Judith.Sturley@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk
• Blaby DC - enterprisingblaby@blaby.gov.uk
• Harborough DC or email business@harborough.gov.uk

Could this work for you? Find out more Kickstart Scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)