The Kickstart Scheme is well underway along with a number of other government incentives, and could provide an opportunity for your business to recruit a new employee.

In response to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government created the Kickstart Scheme, a £2 billion fund aimed at supporting business growth and creating hundreds of thousands of high-quality 6-month job placements for young people aged 16-24, who are claiming Universal Credit.  

BALI members, Central YMCA can help you access this funding that covers 100% of the cost of hiring new employees for 6 months.

Central YMCA have been delivering horticulture apprenticeships across the UK for nearly 30 years, have been recognised as a Gateway organisation for the Kickstart Scheme and so can offer full support and guidance, taking care of all the administration allowing you to focus on your business and selecting the best candidate to join your team. 

Central YMCA is a not-for-profit charity working with around 10,000 learners each year, supporting all sized businesses to inspire and develop skills.

What are the benefits for employers?

Discover eager new talent and develop their skills to support your business as part of a 6-month placement. 

100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week and employer NICs will be covered. 

An additional £1,500 grant per placement for setup costs such as uniform, equipment and training.  

Provide your current employees with experience in training and mentoring.  

Help your local community and support youth employment. 

It is a straightforward process for you as Central YMCA can take care of all the administration required, leaving you with no hassle and no fee.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible to apply for the Kickstart Scheme there is some basic criteria you must meet:

Have a company number and a PAYE set up, or have a Charity Registration Number.

The position does not replace a pre-existing or planned role.

The position will not reduce the hours of existing employees or contractors.

The position will provide a minimum of 25 hours a week, at the national minimum wage, for that young person’s age group.

The young person only requires basic training to start their placement.

Does it really work?

Read this statement from Ken Hewitt, a small business owner who has just hired two new employees through the Kickstart Scheme:

“The extra people we have been able to employ using the Kickstart funding are making a significant difference to our business and YMCA have given us invaluable guidance through the application process and in providing ongoing support and employability training. ” – Ken Hewitt, Manningtree Emporium

How to apply?

Just fill out this form on Central YMCA’s website to gain free advice from one of their experts.