Financial support for 16 to 24 year olds to help them into work if they have been unemployed for six months is now available in Scotland. The upper age limit is 25 for care leavers

The Job Start Payment is a one off £250 payment to help with the costs of starting a new job, £400 if the person has a child.

You can find out more and how to apply here: Job Start Payment

Maree Todd, local SNP MSP and Minister for Children and Young People in the Scottish Government welcomed the new financial support.

Maree Todd said:

“So, this announcement of extra support to help our young people into work really couldn’t come at a better time.

“The job prospects of young people in the Highlands & Islands have been hit hard by this pandemic.

“This payment will help local people with the extra expenses that are often attached to a starting a new job, such as travel costs, new work clothes or even childcare.

“In Government, the SNP is working hard to create new opportunities for work as we rebuild our economy. I’d encourage anyone in in the Highlands & Islands who thinks they may be eligible to apply online.”

James Russell, Skills Development Scotland’s Director of Career Information Advice Guidance Operations, added:

“This new payment will offer welcomed practical help to many young people who our advisers are supporting at this time.

“It will be especially important to those taking their next steps into employment and who may need some additional support to start the right career opportunity for them.”