|
We all know we are currently battling through challenging times and our small business community have understandably been reducing their headcounts at the highest rate ever . With around 16 million people currently employed by small businesses this trend is concerning , especially for our younger employees , whom we know are more likely to be furloughed or made redundant than any other sector . Coupled with this , Universal Credit claimants that are 16-24 years old across Swindon and Wiltshire are tracking as I write at above the national average .
What can small business owners do to help out this section of our population when cash flows are often down and cash reserves depleted ? Why not think about taking advantage of the new Kickstart Employment Scheme ?
Announced in July this scheme aims to
|
create thousands of high quality six-month work placements for 16-24 year olds who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of being long-term unemployed . Under this scheme the Government will cover one hundred percent of employment costs for a new staff member working 25 hours a week . If small business owners feel they may be able to offer this type of life changing opportunity to a new employee or two they can register for the scheme by going to the FSB website here : www . fsb . org . uk / campaign / kickstart-scheme . html and filling out a simple form . We will then navigate the system for you getting you set up and helping you to find the right person for your team .
We know that young people starting their careers during the last financial crash are still feeling the long term effects on their pay and progression . I suspect
|
there are plenty of business owners who could benefit from an extra pair of hands at this time to help with digital marketing , administration or a range of other activities . If one of those could be you then please do check out this scheme and sign up now .
To find out more about the FSB or # FSBConnectOnline email Ruth at : ruth . lambert @ fsb . org . uk
For info on the FSB ( including its Coronavirus Hub ) go to www . fsb . org . uk and visit our Facebook page ‘ FSB . Somerset . Wiltshire ’
@ fsbsomandwilts
|
Ruth Lambert , FSB Local Development Manager |