The governments new Kickstart Scheme, aimed at supporting 16-24-year-olds, is launched this month. The TUC has produced a number of resources to help union activists understand what it does, why it is important and how unions can best engage in the programme.

The new jobs programme announced by the chancellor could help tackle youth unemployment, but we need to make sure it delivers real jobs with training.

With this in mind the TUC has produced a briefing “Kickstart - an introduction for union activists”.

This guide will be regularly updated as the scheme continues with examples on how our trade unions are engaging with employers and tools to support you in your work. It is packed full of useful information about what is Kickstart, the training element of the scheme and why it must make these good job opportunities for young people.

TUC Policy Officer Anjum Klair has written a blog about "Why Kickstart has to be a success". In this Anjum explains the impact of youth unemployment on the future opportunities of young people and why the TUC called for, and outlined, a Jobs Guarantee programme for young people as soon as the impact of the pandemic hit.

On Wednesday 25th at 2pm the TUC will be hosting a webinar ”Introduction to the Kickstart scheme - what union reps need to know” with the TUC Head of Rights, International, Social and Economics Kate Bell asking:

• What is the Kickstart scheme and how does it help young workers?
• What are the requirements of employers who want to set up the scheme?
• How can reps ensure employers go above and beyond government recommendations to support young workers

The Kickstart Scheme is an important development and it vital that unions ensure that young people get as much support has possible. The webinar, blog and new briefing are the best ways for reps and activists to get the information they need to offer that support.