Island Employers Urged To Take Advantage Of Youth Jobs Cash Boost

Isle of Wight businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of new financial incentives designed to help more young people into work.

The Government's Youth Guarantee scheme aims to ensure every 16 to 24-year-old has access to employment, training or education, with employers able to claim grants for taking on eligible young people.

Businesses can receive £3,000 for employing an 18 to 24-year-old who has been claiming Universal Credit for more than six months.

From October, additional £2,000 incentives are expected to become available for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as employers taking on foundation apprentices aged 16 to 24.

Employers recruiting apprentices aged 16 to 18 can also receive a £1,000 payment, alongside existing National Insurance exemptions where applicable.

The wider programme includes a £2.5 billion investment aimed at creating up to 500,000 jobs and training opportunities for young people across the UK.

Councillor Ros Freeman, Chair of the Isle of Wight Council's Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee, said the scheme offered benefits for both employers and young people.

She said:

"Businesses on the Isle of Wight have a vital role to play in supporting our young people to succeed, and the Youth Guarantee offers a real win-win.

"These financial incentives make it easier than ever for employers to take on young people, develop their skills and build a workforce for the future.

"At the same time, they are helping to give our young residents the chance to gain valuable experience and secure long-term employment."

Employers taking part will also have access to recruitment support through Jobcentre Plus, fully funded training and a pipeline of local candidates.

Businesses interested in the scheme can find out more through the Government's recruitment website.