Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Kickstart: Employer Accessibility

Monday 8 March 2021 · 5 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The removal of the 30-job threshold for kickstart applicants led to a significant increase in employer applications.
  • Account managers and organizations such as chambers of commerce work to inform small businesses about the kickstart programme.
  • Ben Houchen, as a Mayor, is praised for his efforts in helping young people gain employment through the kickstart scheme.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew Jones Con
Employment Benefits & Welfare
Context

The requirement that kickstart applicants bid to deliver a minimum of 30 jobs was recently removed, affecting the scheme's accessibility.

Question

What assessment has been made regarding the removal of the job threshold for kickstart applicants and its impact on employer access?

Answer from Therese Coffey

After removing the 30-job threshold last month, there was a significant increase in employer applications. The scheme's role in achieving 250,000 kickstart jobs is progressing with 150,000 roles approved and 4,000 young people started their roles.

Answered
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Q2 Richard Fuller Con North Bedfordshire
Business & Trade
Context

There is a large number of small and medium-sized enterprises in Bedfordshire, with jobcentres being ready to help these businesses access the kickstart scheme.

Question

What measures are taken to ensure that small businesses in Bedfordshire are informed about the kickstart programme and its benefits?

Answer from Therese Coffey

Account managers work across the country, and we collaborate with organisations like chambers of commerce and FSB to spread awareness. Applications can be made through gateways or gateway plus models for sole traders.

Answered
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Q3 Peter Gibson
Employment
Context

The removal of the 30-person threshold has helped small firms in Peter Gibson's constituency, and the Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen is facilitating SMEs to access the scheme.

Question

Will my right hon. Friend join me in commending Ben Houchen for his efforts in helping young people gain employment through kickstart?

Answer from Therese Coffey

Agreeing with Peter Gibson, Ben Houchen is doing fantastic work as a Mayor. He has been instrumental in projects like Treasury North and supporting young people's lives.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask was not fully answered; only partial recognition of the mayor's contribution was given without further detail on kickstart scheme impact.

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Q4 Andrew Jones Con
Employment
Context

The removal of the job threshold has enabled institutions like St Michael's Hospice to apply directly for kickstart roles.

Question

Will my right hon. Friend keep Members informed about the kickstart scheme's progress, so they can promote it and help more people gain opportunities?

Answer from Therese Coffey

The House will be updated on the progress of creating kickstart roles, reducing long-term unemployment risks for young people.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitment to update frequency was not provided; only general statement about updating progress.

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Q5 Stephen Timms Lab East Ham
Employment Benefits & Welfare
Context

Kickstart is currently only for young people claiming universal credit, excluding those on employment and support allowance.

Question

Will the Secretary of State consider extending the kickstart programme to include disabled young people who claim ESA?

Answer from There

The issue is under consideration. The Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work has discussed it with the Minister for Employment.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific timeframe or decision commitment was not given; only stated as under consideration.

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