Government Removes Kickstart Scheme Threshold

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04 February 2021

The UK government has removed the minimum limit of vacancies employers need to create to apply to the Kickstart Scheme.

Previously, there was a need to create a minimum of 30 vacancies to apply directly to the scheme.

According to a press release from the Department for Work and Pensions, more than 120,000 jobs for 16 to 24-year-olds have now been created through the Kickstart Scheme.

The change will be applicable from 3 February 2021.

Kickstart Gateways Available

Announced in July 2020 as part of Rishi Sunak’s “plan for jobs”, the scheme is intended to create work opportunities for young people at risk of long-term unemployment.

Businesses can use the Kickstart Scheme to create new 6-month job placements for young people. Funding is available for 100 per cent of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions. 

There is also £1,500 per job placement available for setup costs, support and training.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Thérèse Coffey commented:

“Kickstart has moved up a gear and I encourage employers to join us and invest in the next generation of talent by joining our Kickstart scheme.

“Now is the time to prepare for post-lockdown placements and employers will now have a choice to apply direct or through one of our 600 fantastic Kickstart gateways who may be locally connected or sector-specific providing that tailored support.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak added: “Young people are among the hardest hit in times like these, which is why we’re doing everything we can to ensure they’re not left without hope and opportunity.”

Picture: a photograph of a young person working with some tools

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 04 February 2021

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