First wave of Kickstart Community placements go live!

140 vacancies set to be filled as part of Catch22’s (@Catch22) Kickstart Community programme   

Young people aged 16-24 at risk of long-term unemployment are set to benefit from 140 new placements created as part of Catch22’s programme Kickstart Community programme. 

The placements are with employers operating locally and nationally – including Kier, Network Plus and Arcus FM. 

Kickstart Community not only matches young job seekers with roles, but provides wraparound support to ensure placements are sustainable.  This includes sector-specific skills training, volunteering opportunities with local civic organisations and mentoring.  

Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said: 

“It’s great to see even more Kickstart placements become available for young people to get them on the employment ladder, with Catch22 also ensuring their work journey continues after the six months – helping them build vital skills and experience for the future. 

“Creating opportunity is at the heart of our Plan for Jobs as we push to build back better and level up – and I wish young jobseekers applying for these exciting new roles every success.” 

Victoria Head, Director of Employability and Skills at Catch22, said: 

“Kickstart has huge potential to make a real difference in reducing unemployment levels and giving young people a way into the world of work. But vital to its success is how sustainable those jobs are. At Kickstart Community, we’ve built a programme that supports both the employer and the employee – with the aim of ensuring after the 6-month placement, roles can be extended or employees can move into another meaningful job.” 

Lisa Jardim, Learning and Engagement Manager at Arcus FM, said: 

“Arcus FM limited is a growing facilities management company. We’re excited to be working at Kickstart Community to offer rewarding Kickstart opportunities to young people at risk of long-term unemployment. With Catch22’s support we aspire to make each Kickstart placement a quality experience so that each individual gains skills and confidence to support them into a rewarding long-term career whether in Arcus or elsewhere.” 

Further vacancies are set to be approved by DWP in the coming weeks.