The Growth Company has been awarded the contract to deliver the government’s Jobs Guarantee programme of youth employment support across the 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester.
The scheme forms part of work to ensure access to education, training, or employment opportunities. In Greater Manchester, the Growth Company will co-ordinate paid work placements for young people alongside support for employers.
Under the scheme, 18-21-year-olds who have been on Universal Credit for 18 months or more are offered a six-month paid work placement for 25 hours a week, with wages fully funded by government. Employers offering placements will receive comprehensive support from the Growth Company, including help with recruitment, onboarding, and in-work guidance for both the employer and employee.
Michelle Leeson, Director for Employment, Justice and Health at the Growth Company, said:
“High youth unemployment is a big challenge for everyone. Too many young people are missing out on opportunities to gain experience and confidence, while employers struggle to find and develop new staff.
“The Jobs Guarantee helps address this problem on both sides. It gives young people a chance to get started in work and gives employers funded support to grow and create a clear line of sight to high quality jobs.
“We’re looking forward to working with local partners and VCSE organisations to make sure as many participants, employers, and communities across Greater Manchester benefit from this new support.”
Employers of all sizes and from every sector are encouraged to register their interest in offering a Jobs Guarantee placement and help shape the next generation of Greater Manchester’s workforce.
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