Everything you need to know about the Kickstart Scheme

18 October 2021
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has recently announced that the Kickstart Scheme will be extended by three months and will now end in March 2022. The scheme that aims to create more jobs for young people, between the ages of 16 and 24 years old, was previously due to end in December 2021.
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Our team discusses what the Kickstart Scheme is and how businesses and young people can benefit from it. 

For all employment law enquiries, please get in touch with our Employment Law Solicitors in Colchester today.


What is the Kickstart Scheme? 


The Kickstart Scheme is a government initiative that was introduced to help people, aged 16 to 24 years old, who are on universal credit and are at the risk of long-term employment. By providing funding to create new job placements, the scheme aims to provide exciting opportunities for young people to gain valuable work experience. 

How can a business benefit from the Kickstart Scheme? 


By getting involved in the Kickstart Scheme, businesses will be supporting a young adult to develop their transferable skills and help them gain solid work experience which aims to help with increasing their chances of sustained employment. 

The funding, provided by the Government, covers the following: 

  • 100% of the National Minimum Wage (or the National Living Wage, dependant on the age of the participant) for 25 hours per week, lasting for a total of 6 months
  • Associated employer National Insurance contributions
  • Minimum Automatic Enrolment Pension contributions 
  • A grant to cover setup costs and support 


How does a business get involved in the Kickstart Scheme? 


Businesses can either apply online for a Kickstart Scheme grant or apply for a grant through a Kickstart Gateway. It’s important that all roles created are new and will not replace existing, or any planned, vacancies. These roles should also not cause existing employees, apprentices or contractors to reduce their working hours or lose their roles completely. Interested in getting involved in the Kickstart Scheme before it ends? Head to Gov.uk to find out more or make an application. 

How does the Kickstart Scheme benefit young people? 


The Kickstart Scheme aims to help young people by providing them with more opportunities to gain valuable work experience. All young adults who take part in the Kickstart Scheme will be given the opportunity to gain transferable skills, as well as skills and experience related directly to their job placement. 

You can find out more about the kickstarter scheme via the Government website and check whether you qualify.

Our Employment Law Solicitors in Colchester are experienced in providing legal advice on a range of employment law matters. Get in touch with Karen Morovic for support with all your employment law needs.

Speak to an expert:
Karen Morovic 
01206 593433
karen@johnfowlers.co.uk