Kickstart scheme could be better, says ACS

The Kickstart scheme provides funding for training and job placements for 16-24-year-olds on universal credit and deemed to be at risk of long-term unemployment.

The ACS submission to a consultation on the scheme makes a number of long-term recommendations including:

• Consistent turnaround times for DWP administration and feedback on applications for funding
• A more proactive DWP role to foster and encourage effective local partnerships for jobs between retailers, candidates and training providers.
• Adapting employer resources for different business audiences

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Convenience stores provide local, secure and flexible employment opportunities to hundreds of thousands of people across the UK and the introduction of the Kickstart scheme has supported job creation in the sector.

“In our submission, we are calling for the DWP to work to foster local partnerships between employers, candidates and training providers. With these changes, the scheme should be used as a template to inform future job creation initiatives.”

Retailers wishing to participate must apply for funding by 17th December and arrange placement start dates by 31st March 2022.

More information about the Kickstart Scheme, including guidance for employers, can be found here: gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme