A new benefit to support 16 to 24-year-olds into work if they
have been unemployed for six months will open for applications on
Monday 17 August.
Job Start Payment is a one-off £250 payment to help with the
costs of starting a new job. The upper age limit rises to 25
for care leavers and the payment rises to £400 if the person
has a child.
In its first year, it is estimated around 5,000 young people
will benefit from this new financial support.
Social Security Secretary
said:
“I am delighted that our Job Start Payment is today now open
for applications; it really couldn’t come at a better time to
support our young people to take up job offers.
“Young people are among those whose job prospects have been
hardest hit by this pandemic. As such, it is crucial that we
support them and ensure they are at the heart of our economic
recovery from COVID-19.
“Last week, we announced an additional £10 million for a range
of measures to recruit and retain apprentices. Combined with
our commitment of at least £50 million for youth employment and
Scotland’s Youth Guarantee, we will ensure no one is left
behind.
“Building on this work to create opportunities, this new
benefit will also help young people after a period of
unemployment. Getting a job can represent a massive turning
point for many young people, but it can also bring financial
pressures.
“Costs like travel, new work clothes, or childcare often have
to be met before people get their first pay.
“The brand new Job Start Payment will help young people with
these costs, which can sometimes be a barrier to them taking up
an offer and we will be encouraging anyone eligible to apply. ”
Skills Development Scotland’s Director of Career Information
Advice Guidance Operations, James Russell said:
“This new payment will offer welcomed practical help to many
young people who our advisers are supporting at this time.
“It will be especially important to those taking their next
steps into employment and who may need some additional support
to start the right career opportunity for them.”
