Social Justice Secretary Shona Robison MSP has urged eligible young people to apply for Job Start Payment if they are starting a new job after a period of unemployment.
Eligible 16-24 year olds, who have been on certain benefits for six months or more, can apply for the one-off payment worth £252.50, or £404 if the applicant has children. The payment will help with the costs of starting a job including travel, new clothes or childcare.
Care leavers can access this support up to 25 years of age. They also just need to be on a qualifying benefit when they get the job offer, they don’t need to have been in receipt of this benefit for six months.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“It’s been an extremely difficult time for young people, with lockdown reducing job opportunities for many. Now that young people are able to get into work again, it’s important to make sure the costs associated with taking up a job don’t become prohibitive.
“We know lockdown has impacted job opportunities for many young people and getting money to those who need it is our priority.
“It is great to see organisations across the private and public sector highlighting the availability of Job Start Payment to their new employees. I strongly encourage all eligible young people across North Ayrshire to apply now.”
People can apply for Job Start Payment for up to three months after their start date.
Find out more and apply through mygov.scot or by calling 0800 182 2222.
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