Yesterday I held an event on the government’s Kickstart scheme for jobs.  

I am seriously concerned about businesses which are struggling and about young people who have taken the brunt of the crisis. I am happy that the government has come up with the Kickstart scheme which I do think has potential to support businesses and young people. I wanted to inform small and medium-sized businesses, to help them access the scheme and answer some of the questions that have been coming into my inbox. 

Labour’s three key tests for the Kickstart scheme are that it must deliver high quality placements with training opportunities built in, it must support smaller businesses and not just large employers, and that it transitions participants into long–lasting employment. These were some of the issues we discussed yesterday. 

It was great to hear the knowledge and expertise from the panel about the scheme, how to support young people’s employability and the importance of ensuring we are also supporting Black-led businesses and young BAME people in Bristol West.  

Panellists: 

Jane Taylor, Head of Employment and Skills, Bristol City Council
Claire Ralph, Policy Projects and Delivery Manager, Business West
Sam Rae, Head of Public Partnerships in South, The Princes Trust
Sibusiso Tshabalala, Buy Social Programme Coordinator, Black South West Network
Adam Brittain, Bristol Association of Restaurants, Bars and Independent Establishments 

You can watch the discussion below. If you live in Bristol West (check here) and have any further questions about the scheme, please email me on thangam.debbonaire.mp@parliament.uk