Deadline for Kickstart placements is fast approaching

Applications for the Government's Kickstart placement scheme through Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce will close on Friday, 10th December.

The Kickstart scheme has been hugely popular across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, with the Chamber supporting almost 500 businesses with over 1,500 kickstart placements, providing more than £1.6 million worth of grant funding.

Employers can use the scheme to help create new job placements 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.

- National Insurance contributions.

- Automatic enrolment contributions.

Chris Plant, Divisional Director at the Chamber (pictured), said: “We 've enjoyed seeing the benefits that young people have brought to local businesses - with many firms taking on multiple placements and employing staff on a permanent basis.

“With a growing skills crisis, the Kickstart scheme is fantastic opportunity for businesses to give young people real life work experience and to spot potential talent for their future workforce.

“As the deadline for applications is looming, I 'd encourage any businesses who are interested in taking on a placement to get in touch. ”

Applications need to be into us by 10th December 2021 to ensure it can be submitted to the DWP in time.

Any business interested in applying can contact [email protected]