The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) is encouraging Members to take advantage of the government’s £2 billion pound Kickstart scheme by providing full administrative support to simplify the engagement process.
Kickstart is the government’s post-Covid regeneration tool that enables employers to offer high-quality 6-month work placements to young people aged 16-24 who are at risk of long-term unemployment and are currently claiming Universal Credit.
Employers will be able to claim 100% of the National Minimum Wage for their charge, up to 25 hours, plus the associated employer National Insurance and minimum automatic enrolment contributions.
The BMF believes this is an opportunity for its members to bring young people into their business and help them identify future apprentices. However, the administrative complexities and time-consuming joining process of the scheme may prevent some from applying, which is why the BMF has introduced a new service to overcome these issues and open up the scheme to every BMF member wishing to participate.
Carmen Daley, Operations Manager, BMF Apprenticeships Plus said: “One of the largest barriers to entry is the requirement that employers undertake a rigorous application process and have at least 30 placements available.
“To ensure all BMF members have access to this incredible opportunity, the BMF Apprenticeship Plus team is offering a dedicated Kickstart Support Service.
“As well as providing an access route for those who do not meet the minimum number of placements, the managed service oversees all practical and administrative elements of the initiative making it as simple as possible for all BMF members to engage.”
To find out more about the BMF Kickstart Support Service, or to register interest, contact Carmen Daley on 07496 370 224 or email carmen@bmfapprenticeshipsplus.co.uk.
