Employers are being encouraged to tap into a new source of young talent.
The Youth Jobs Grant scheme offers £3,000 in financial support for businesses in York and North Yorkshire that hire young people aged 18 to 24 who are currently receiving Universal Credit.
The scheme aims to help employers fill vacancies, address skills shortages and invest in the next generation of workers by connecting them with motivated, work-ready candidates.
Wendy Mangan, recruitment and partnership manager for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in York and North Yorkshire, said: "Employers consistently tell us that finding the right people is one of their biggest challenges.
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"The Youth Jobs Grant is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to access motivated young talent while receiving £3,000 to support recruitment and development costs."
A flyer promoting the scheme (Image: DWP)
The grant is paid in two instalments: £1,800 after six weeks of employment and a further £1,200 at 18 weeks.
Eligible roles must be for at least 25 hours per week and last a minimum of four months.
Employers must complete a simple application process and work with local Jobcentre teams, who will identify and refer suitable candidates.
Ms Mangan said: "These young people are keen to learn, eager to work and ready to contribute.
"For employers, this is not simply about filling a vacancy; it's about investing in future talent, developing skills within their workforce and giving a young person the chance to build a successful career."
The claimant count for September (Image: Pic supplied)
She said that many employers who have taken part in similar schemes have found lasting value in supporting young people into the workplace.
Ms Mangan said: "We've worked with many employers who have discovered that supporting a young person into employment brings fresh ideas, loyalty and long-term value to their business.
"I would encourage any employer with current or upcoming vacancies to find out more and see how the Youth Jobs Grant could help them grow their workforce while making a real difference in their local community."
The scheme is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors.
The initiative comes as the government's claimant count for September records roses over the past year.
In September, York had a claimant count of 2,845, an increase of 30 or 1.1 per cent on a year ago. The over 50s made up 530 of this, an increase of 15 or three per cent.
The latest figures record a claimant count of 615 in Ryedale, an increase of 45 or 8 per cent. The over 50s made up 200 of this, an increase of 45 or 29 per cent.
In Selby, the claimant count was 1180, an increase of 55 or 5 per cent. The over 50s made up 295 of this, an increase of 5 or 2per cent.
Nationally, the Office for National Statistics said the rate of UK unemployment fell to 4.7 per cent in the three months to August, from 4.9 per cent in the three months to July, the lowest level since the three months to July 2025.
Employers interested in finding out more about the Youth Jobs Grant can visit business.gov.uk/futureworkforce.