The logo for the national Kickstart Scheme

We are no longer taking applications for the Kickstart Scheme. The team can still help with a range of recruitment opportunities. Get in touch for more information.

Email: business@harborough.gov.uk

What is the Kickstart Scheme?

The Kickstart Scheme is part of the Government’s Plan for Jobs which was announced in July 2020 and it aims to create hundreds and thousands of new, fully funded and paid work placements across England, Scotland and Wales.

The scheme offers funding for employers to create new 6 month job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Funding will cover for each job placement:

  • 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week
  • the associated employer National Insurance contributions
  • employer minimum automatic enrollment contributions

There is also £1500 per job placement available for setup costs, support and training.

This is a fantastic opportunity for your organisation to make a real difference to young people during this difficult time. It is also a beneficial opportunity which can help attract young talent into your organisation and sector – and it is fully funded!

Am I Eligible?

The job placements created with Kickstart funding must be new jobs. They must not:

  • replace existing or planned vacancies
  • cause existing employees or contractors to lose or reduce their employment

The roles you are applying for must be:

  • a minimum of 25 hours per week, for 6 months
  • paid at least the National Minimum Wage for their age group
  • should not require people to undertake extensive training before they begin the job placement
  • funded by the Kickstart Scheme grant and would not exist without this funding

You will also need to help the participants to develop their skills and experience, including:

  • support to look for long-term work, including career advice and setting goals
  • support with CV and interview preparations
  • supporting the participant with basic skills, such as attendance, timekeeping and teamwork

How will it work?

If you have any questions, please email business@harborough.gov.uk

(If it would be helpful, one of our team can phone you for a more detailed chat and to answer any specific questions that you might have).

Find more employment support here.