The Kickstart Scheme was a UK Government initiative that operated until 2022, designed to support young people aged 16–24 who were in receipt of Universal Credit by providing fully funded six-month job placements. The scheme covered 100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours per week, in addition to employer National Insurance and pension contributions, alongside funding for training and initial set-up costs.

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New Hope Global (NHG) was successful in securing three Kickstart placements, all of which were filled in full, demonstrating effective recruitment and engagement with young people facing barriers to employment. The outcomes of the programme were particularly strong, with two of the three participants progressing into sustained employment with New Hope Global following the completion of their placements.

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Shamima (aged 19) remained in employment with NHG for a total of two years, gaining valuable work experience and transferable skills before relocating to London to pursue further career opportunities. Alif (20yrs) continued working with NHG for one year after her placement, after which she progressed into higher education, enrolling on a degree course in law at Aston University. Alif followed her ambition of completing her master’s degree in her chosen field. Anika (19yrs) successfully completed her six-month placement and, in recognition of her performance and contribution, was offered the permanent role of Administration and Monitoring Officer with New Hope Global in October 2021 to date.  This was an amazing outcome for the organisation as the programme allowed New Hope to employ an admin role which was missing before the scheme.

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Overall, NHG’s participation in the Kickstart Scheme delivered meaningful and sustainable outcomes, supporting young people into long-term employment and further education, while strengthening the organisation’s workforce and capacity.