The government’s Kickstart Scheme was launched in September 2020 and only ended in March 2022, with an aim of tackling the high levels of youth employment.
Four months after concluding, over 163,000 jobs were secured by young people around the country, which equates to 7 in 10 young people earning money.
With the levels of unemployment at a 50-year low, an awards ceremony was hosted in Lancaster House on Tuesday, with six young people being awarded for their outstanding contribution, as recognised by their employer. 11 employers were also recognised for their work in helping and supporting young people throughout, and following, the Covid-19 pandemic.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said:
“Our Kickstart Scheme has transformed the lives of thousands of young people, giving them their vital first step into the workplace, and the confidence to develop skills, while business have benefitted from fresh talent, energy, and enthusiasm.
I want to congratulate all those who have made a success of this fantastic programme, with many still in work today, and I want to thank all the employers who joined us on our mission to invest in the next generation and help ensure unemployment stays at its near 50-year low.”
Therese Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, added:
“Kickstart has been a huge success for our young people with over 163,000 of them having a first taste of work after a challenging time in the pandemic. With around 30,000 still on the scheme, most Kickstart graduates are still in work, which is fantastic news.
I’d like to thank every business that worked with us to create opportunities and improve the prospects of a generation of talent.”
Moving forward, there has been a renewed focus from ministers on helping those with additional barriers to get into employment, making sure that everyone has access to a stable and rewarding career, no matter their age or career stage. Jobcentres are supporting people to progress, boost their career, whilst helping to increase economic growth and address the cost of living.
