The Kickstart Scheme, managed locally by the London Borough of Bexley, aims to help young people who are at risk of becoming long term unemployed. The funding pays for the young person’s wages (including on-costs) up to 25 hours per week for 26 weeks.

The council is gearing up to work with over 40 Bexley businesses to create 89 new job placements with the Kickstart Scheme funding.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth, Councillor Louie French said:

“The coronavirus pandemic has meant many businesses have had to close their doors or operate in a different way, while others have had to cut costs by furloughing their employees or letting them go. With fewer jobs available as a result, it has never been harder for young people to land their first job and gain valuable work experience.

“The Kickstart Scheme is a brilliant way for not only young people to get into work, but for businesses to get back on their feet by getting extra staff on board and having their wages fully covered for 26 weeks. If you run a business in the borough and you think you can help young people get the experience they need, please sign up today.”

The new job placement opportunities will begin to be advertised at Jobcentre Plus over the next couple of weeks where Work Coaches will identify suitable candidates for interview.

Further Kickstart funding is available for training and support so that young people on the scheme can get additional workplace qualifications.

Businesses in Bexley wanting to create a funded job placement should apply by emailing kickstart@bexley.gov.uk

The council is accepting applications up to December 2021.

To find out more visit www.gov.uk/kickstart