Businesses which take on jobless youngsters are being offered thousands of pounds.
From Tuesday June 30 businesses can access the new Youth Jobs Grant, which will pay £3,000 for every eligible young person they hire. The UK Government says the move will help up to 60,000 people aged 18-24 take their first steps into work over the next three years.
To apply for the Youth Jobs Grant, employers must complete an online application and will receive funding in two instalments once employment and earnings have been verified by DWP.
UK-based attractions business Merlin Entertainments, which operates more than 20 UK destinations including LEGOLAND Windsor, Chessington World of Adventures, Alton Towers and London’s SEA LIFE Aquarium, has committed to create 300 jobs for young people over the next three years.
Merlin will also use the Growth & Skills Levy to open up more apprenticeship routes through its Engineering Academy, giving the next generation of technicians the training they need to operate and maintain its world-class rides and experiences.
Many of the 300 roles at Merlin will be through will be through the Jobs Guarantee, which has launched in six areas – offering a fully-subsidised job for six months for young people who’ve been out of work for at least 18 months and will receive wraparound support.
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:
“This is a game-changer for young people in Wales. Employers are now able to claim grants of £3,000 for every eligible young person they hire, helping them take their first step on to the career ladder.
“The UK Government is taking action to ensure that every young person on Wales gets the opportunities they deserve. That includes piloting the Jobs Guarantee scheme in South East and South West Wales and funding 20 Youth Hubs across Wales, offering both financial and practical support to get young people working.”
Merlin CEO Fiona Eastwood said:
“We’ve long championed opportunities for young people across our UK attractions, with many starting their careers with Merlin every year – so we know the difference that early opportunity can make.
“Across our sites, young people help bring joy to life for our guests and each other, creating spaces where teamwork, imagination and play thrive. For many, that first role with us is only the beginning of a much longer journey, with colleagues going on to build varied and rewarding careers within Merlin.
“That’s why we’re proud to back the Government’s Youth Jobs Grant and wider Youth Guarantee scheme. We’re ready to harness our scale to open up 300 new opportunities over the next three years – starting at our four resort theme parks.
“This is a practical, positive step that helps businesses like Merlin invest in young people with confidence while giving them the skills, experience and support to grow and progress. We’re excited to play our part in helping more young people not only take that crucial first step, but build lasting careers for the future.”
UK Hospitality has convened businesses to discuss ways they can engage with the Youth Guarantee, including attending Youth Guarantee Job Fairs, taking on a young apprentice or becoming a delivery partner.
Allen Simpson, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said:
“Hospitality is a sector that offers opportunities for anyone, particularly when it comes to helping people back into work.
“The Youth Jobs Grant is a positive initiative to reduce the cost of employment, create more opportunities and support hospitality businesses.
“I’ve been pleased to work with the Government on this and bring together businesses today to discuss how the sector can engage with the Youth Guarantee.”
