Can I do a Kickstart scheme?
Jobs on the Kickstart scheme are open to 16 – 24-year-olds. To be eligible, you need to be claiming Universal Credit or be at risk of long-term unemployment. Get in touch with your Work Coach about these opportunities, or if you don’t have one, you can contact your local authority, jobcentre, or visit the Gov.uk website.
How long is a Kickstart placement?
Your Kickstart placement will be a 6-month paid job with a local employer and you can start your placement up until December 2021.
Will it cost me money to do work experience?
On the Kickstart scheme you won’t have to pay a penny – in fact, you’ll be the one getting paid. Wahay!
What support do I get?
As well as gaining work experience, you’ll also receive employability training as part of the Kickstart scheme.
Do I get paid?
Yes! If you get a job on the Kickstart scheme you will be paid – your employer will pay directly into your bank account *ka-ching*. You’ll be working at least 25 hours per week (which means you may be working more depending on the employer) and you’ll be paid National Minimum Wage. This does differ depending on your age:
- Under 18: £4.62 per hour
- 18 – 20: £6.56 per hour
- 21 – 22: £8.36 per hour
- 23 and over: £8.91 per hour
However, the actual amount you could be earning may differ as some employers are topping up employee earnings, meaning you could earn even more than this!
How does this help in the future?
If you get a job on the Kickstart scheme, you’ll be able to add some fantastic work experience to your CV. You’ll also get employability training; don’t worry, it’s not as boring as it sounds – it’ll help you enhance your skills to help you find your next opportunity!
Not only that but if you really impress your employer, you could also be put forward for other prospects, whether that’s a traineeship, apprenticeship or another employment opportunity.
How do I apply?
You have a few options if you want to start a Kickstart job. If you’re currently claiming Universal Credit, your local Jobcentre will be able to check that you’re eligible and work with you to find the perfect opportunity in your area.
Alternatively, a range of exciting larger employers are also able to advertise their opportunities on other job sites, including GetMyFirstJob – so make sure to keep your eye out! Just make sure to bear in mind that you still need to be claiming Universal Credit to be eligible for these opportunities.