Employers across Neath Port Talbot are being asked if they can offer young people a job placement – with the position fully funded by the UK Government as part of its new Kickstart scheme.
Neath Port Talbot Council acts as a Gateway Representative (local agent) for the Kickstart programme in the county borough.
The job creation programme, overseen by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), was launched in 2020 to support firms to offer six-month work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds who are in receipt of Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
Funding available for each job will cover 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus the associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions.
Employers will get £1,000 per placement to support any set up costs, training or equipment required.
Also, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Employability Team will be providing a full package of support for both the placement and the employer, through reviews and support sessions
For each ‘Kickstarter’ job, the government will:
Cover the cost of 25 hours’ work a week at the National Minimum Wage
- £4.55 for under 18s
- £6.45 for 18 to 20-year-olds
- £8.20 for 21 to 24-year-olds
Employers will also be able to top up that payment if they wish.
Cllr Annette Wingrave, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Sustainable Development, said:
“The jobs in this scheme will give young people the opportunity to build their skills in the workplace and gain experience to improve their chances of finding long-term work.
“The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on businesses across the country and the DWP recognises that benefit claims for young people have already risen and there has been an increase in unemployment among those aged 18-24.
“It is therefore hoped the Council’s promotion of the Kickstart scheme and support from local employers will go some way towards alleviating the impact on young people of the current economic difficulties, and will offer quality employment and career opportunities for their future.”
