Kickstart Scheme extended: application deadline 17th December

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has extended Kickstart and employers can offer a job and apply for a new grant, or add more jobs to an existing grant, until 17th December 2021. Any jobs created must start by 31st March 2022.

Kickstart is designed to create jobs for 16- to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit. Employers can receive funding to cover 100% of the National Minimum Wage (or the National Living Wage depending on the age of the participant) for 25 hours per week for a total of 6 months. Associated employer National Insurance contributions and minimum automatic enrolment pension contributions can also be claimed.

Alan Mitchell, Chief Executive of Fife Chamber of Commerce, said: “The extension of Kickstart is welcome. Fortunately, we haven’t seen a big increase in unemployment as the Furlough scheme has wound down and ended but we can all play a part in ensuring that young people do not suffer because of Covid. Our forthcoming Rising Stars Dinner will put their talents and ambitions in the spotlight, while Kickstart gives them an opportunity to gain valuable business/industry experience and skills.”

Click here to learn more about the programme.