Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock, has called for additional support for young people to assist in the post coronavirus lockdown recovery.

He spoke during questions to the Department for Work and Pensions on Monday 14 September following the Government’s launch of the Kickstart Scheme. 

The Kickstart Scheme which will create thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country. 6-month placements are open to those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. Extra funding will be available to support young people to build their experience and help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job. 

You can find more information about the scheme here - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme 

Stephen Metcalfe said: “Whilst least medically vulnerable to this virus, young people potentially stand to lose the most in lost economic opportunity as we recover from coronavirus. 

As a champion of apprenticeships and training, it is important that the Government ensures further support to the kickstart scheme is available to help young people secure the future opportunities they deserve.

I was able to speak to the Government during questions to the Department for Work and Pensions on Monday and am pleased to receive assurances from the Minister of Employment.’’