OPPORTUNITIES for young people at risk of long-term employment are available through the health board.

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is taking part in the Kickstart Scheme which aims to develop transferable skills and increase the opportunity for sustained employment.

The scheme offers six-month work placements, using grant funding to support young people aged between 16 and 24 years old who are currently out of work, claiming Universal Credit and are at risk of long-term unemployment.

What does Kickstart offer young people?

Kickstart Scheme jobs are normally 25 hours per week and pay at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage depending on age.

People on the scheme will be paid by their employer and – depending on their circumstance – may continue to receive Universal Credit once they start work.

Along with six-months paid work, young people on the scheme will receive additional employability support to help boost their prospects.

How is Cardiff and Vale University Health Board involved with the scheme?

Several departments in the health board are supporting the scheme, including:

  • Learning, Education & Development Department
  • Housekeeping
  • Catering
  • Dental Clinic Support
  • Cardiff & Vale Health Charity
  • Children’s Hospital of Wales

A spokesman for the health board said: “As a health board we recognise the impact of COVID-19 on employment especially for young people.

“We are therefore pleased to be in the position to support our young people and to make a positive impact at such a challenging time.

“From an initial intake of 50, we have successfully enrolled 136 participants to date, with that number expected to increase to 200 by the end of the year.”

More information about the Kickstart Scheme can be found online at jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/kickstart/