Over 65 EFL clubs, including Northampton Town, have signed up to be involved, offering six-month work placement jobs roles to young people aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit - with the aim to give young people the opportunity to build their skills in the workplace and to gain experience to improve their chances of finding long-term work.
Vacancies at clubs and their charitable arms will include business admin, sports coaches, marketing, ground staff, finance, youth work, graphic design, film & photography and HR and data administration roles
Kickstart gives young people the opportunity they need to get their foot on the ladder and a foothold in the world of work. Nationally, the scheme has already created more than 38,000 vacancies across the UK and received over 4,000 applications from employers. Tens of thousands more jobs are expected in the coming months.
The scheme targets young people who have been hit especially hard by Coronavirus and Kickstart focuses on giving them the best possible chance of getting a job.
Under the scheme, the EFL Trust, the charitable arm of the EFL will be acting as a Gateway provider, bringing together a network of football clubs, community organisations and other partners, to provide a wealth of opportunities across the country for the out-of-work youngsters.
Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said “It’s great to see the EFL Trust sign up to the Kickstart scheme, to nurture and support so many of our next generation of workers. This fantastic commitment will see nearly 500 young people take up a diverse range of roles, from working in finance and HR, to becoming a sports coach or marketing for a major club.
“The Kickstart Scheme gives thousands of young jobseekers a chance to get on the jobs ladder – they’ll gain vital work experience, build a network of contacts and learn the value of earning a wage for themselves – as part of our £30bn Plan for Jobs helping people of all ages into work.”
Mike Evans, CEO, EFL Trust said “This impact of COVID-19 on our young people is clearly very significant and we are delighted to be able to offer opportunities to young people in our communities through the Kickstart programme. A key part of our strategy at the EFL Trust is to raise aspirations and realise the potential within our communities and a scheme like Kickstart enables us to have a significant impact on the young people who need out support most right now.”
Northampton Town FC Community Trust have six positions through this scheme that will be offered throughout the next twelve months. These will include coaching, administrative, and mentoring roles. Please get in touch with your work coach at your local job centre to find out more.