Copeland businesses are being invited to learn how they can get involved in a scheme designed to ensure young people at risk of long-term unemployment have a future of opportunity and hope.
Trudy Harrison MP is set to host a Facebook Live event to provide information and guidance on how businesses in Copeland can sign up to the Government’s landmark £2bn Kickstart Scheme.
The scheme was launched last year as part of the package of support available for businesses and self-employed people during the pandemic.
The Copeland MP will be joined by the Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP, representatives from Copeland’s Job Centre and Cumbria’s Chamber of Trade, Cumbria’s Chamber of Commerce along with a local business owner and employee signed up to the scheme.
Trudy said: “We know that young people are facing difficulties in finding long-term employment and of course, and I want to do all I can to help.
“That’s why I am calling on businesses to join with me on Friday 4th June when I will be hosting a live virtual event to provide information on how to get involved with the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, bringing together the Minister for Employment, DWP advisors and local businesses to answer any questions.
“The impact of the pandemic on people’s lives has been exceptionally challenging and the Prime Minister and Chancellor in particular have been crystal clear in their appreciation for companies continuing to offer employment, who will be at the very forefront of our national recovery.”
Employers that sign up to the scheme can offer those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit a six-month work placement that is fully funded by the Government.
Government will pay 100 per cent of the young persons’ age-relevant National Minimum Wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week, which the employer can top up if they chose to.
In addition, the Government will pay the employer £1500 for each young person they take on, to support any training or associated costs that they might incur including uniforms.
In January, the Government broadened the scheme by removing the minimum 30 vacancies threshold, enabling businesses to apply to the scheme for any number of placements, a move which was welcomed by Trudy.
