More than 400 Lancashire businesses join Kickstart programme

More than 400 businesses across Central Lancashire and the Fylde Coast have offered employment opportunities to young people from the county, through the Kickstart programme.
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The national scheme, announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak in 2020, has been introduced to ensure that young individuals are given the opportunity to expand their work skills, whilst being paid to undertake a six-month business placement.

The programme, which is being delivered locally by the NWL Chamber of Commerce, offers support, guidance and an end-to-end service to businesses seeking new talent.

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The scheme runs until December this year and the Chamber, has already helped local employers create over 300 roles for young people, one of the highest in the region, is urging businesses to get involved.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak at the launch of the Kickstart schemeChancellor Rishi Sunak at the launch of the Kickstart scheme
Chancellor Rishi Sunak at the launch of the Kickstart scheme

Babs Murphy, chief executive of the NWL Chamber of Commerce said: “At a time when cashflow is tight, this fully funded scheme will help employers bring young people into the workplace and develop new talent for the future.

“To be successful, Kickstart needs to create long-term, quality employment opportunities and ensure that both businesses and employees are fully supported throughout the placement.

“Rooted in our local business community the Chamber understands employers’ growth aspirations, and will be working to bring companies and young people together to create new jobs.”

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The Kickstart scheme promotes training and upskilling in young people to prepare them for the world of work. In many cases, those undertaking placements may go on to be offered a permanent position at their host organisation.

Babs MurphyBabs Murphy
Babs Murphy

Businesses taking on a Kickstart candidate will get financial support from the government to pay the employee’s wages for six-months. They will also receive an amount to train, upskill and invest in the employee, plus support for purchasing any necessary tools or equipment for the job.

The Government will fund 100 per cent of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus National Insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment pension contributions.

In addition, businesses taking on a Kickstart candidate can apply for £1,500 per job placement available for setup costs, ongoing support, and training.

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The Chamber will also support the organisations and candidates to ensure the places receive a high level of training and support through qualified training. For more details contact the Chamber on (01772) 653000 or email [email protected]

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