The newly launched Youth Jobs Grant gives employers the opportunity to access motivated young talent while receiving financial support to help offset the costs of hiring and developing new staff. The scheme opened for applications on 30 June 2026 and is available to employers across Great Britain.

Why employers are getting involved

Many businesses are facing recruitment challenges, skills shortages, and rising employment costs. The Youth Jobs Grant helps you:

• Receive £3,000 for every eligible young person you recruit.
• Access pre-screened candidates through Jobcentre Plus recruitment support.
• Fill genuine vacancies with enthusiastic young people looking to build their careers.
• Strengthen your workforce while making a positive impact in your local community.

The scheme is expected to support around 20,000 recruitment opportunities each year, meaning employers who engage early will be well positioned to benefit.

Could your business be eligible?

You may qualify if your organisation:

• Operates in Great Britain
• Is actively trading and registered with HMRC
• Has traded for at least 6 months
• Intends to recruit employees into genuine paid roles Businesses of all sizes, including sole traders, can apply

What roles qualify?

Eligible jobs must:

• Be at least 25 hours per week
• Last for a minimum of 4 months
• Pay at least the National Minimum or Living Wage
• Be genuine vacancies that do not replace existing employees
• Provide a safe, lawful and suitable working environment

The process is straightforward

1. Submit a simple online application (typically takes around 20 minutes).
2. DWP completes eligibility checks.
3. Once checks are approved, you will be invited to submit your vacancies.
4. Receive recruitment support and candidate matching.
5. Recruit your preferred candidate.
6. Receive grant payments once conditions are met.

Guidance and application

Apply here: Youth Jobs Grant – Find a Grant

Further guidance and Terms and Conditions: Youth Jobs Grant Guidance

Employer Guide Toolkit: Download the PDFToolkit

Let’s discuss your recruitment plans

I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss current or future recruitment needs and explore how the Youth Jobs Grant could help your business reduce hiring costs whilst developing your future workforce.

If you are unsure whether the grant is right for your business, I would like to invite you to an Employer Information Webinar where you can hear more about:

• How the Youth Jobs Grant works
• Employer eligibility requirements
• The application process
• Recruitment support available through DWP
• Questions from employers considering the scheme

Webinar Details

Thursday 3 September 2026
9:30am – 10:30am
Online Via Eventbrite

Whether you are actively recruiting now or simply planning, the webinar will provide a useful overview of the support available and how other employers are incorporating the scheme into their recruitment strategies.

A simple next step

Even if you have no immediate vacancies, attending the webinar will help you understand what support is available when recruitment needs arise.

To reserve your place, REGISTER HERE