Youth Jobs Grant

Youth Jobs Grant

The Youth Jobs Grant helps employers create job opportunities for young people aged 18 to 24 who have been on Universal Credit for 6 months or more and is looking for work.

As part of the wider Youth Guarantee, the scheme provides financial support to employers who recruit eligible young people into suitable roles that are registered with the scheme.

Employers may receive up to £3,000 per job, paid in stages if the scheme conditions are met.

The grant is designed to support sustained employment and complement normal recruitment activity. 

The scheme is available across Great Britain and opened for applications from 30 June 2026.

Apply online using the Find a Grant service 

Applications are assessed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). If approved, you can submit vacancies and start recruitment. 

The application is available at Find a Grant.

You will usually only need to apply once. You may be able to submit additional vacancies without reapplying. 

Funding is subject to availability and scheme conditions.

Please refer to the Grant Terms and Conditions and Grant Guidance linked above for details of how to apply.

Who can apply 

You may be able to apply if your organisation: 

• operates in Great Britain and is actively trading 

• is registered with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) 

• meets eligibility requirements and passes necessary checks 

Organisations of any size can apply, including sole traders intending to employ staff.

What jobs are eligible 

Jobs must provide a genuine opportunity for a young person. 

The role must: 

• be at least 25 hours per week and last at least 4 months 

• pay at least the applicable minimum wage 

• be a real job that does not replace an existing worker 

• be lawful, safe, suitable and comparable to roles offered outside the scheme

Questions and support 

If you need help, contact the Employer Services Line (ESL). 

Telephone: 0800 169 0178 (freephone or use the ESL Contact Form). 

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (closed weekends and bank holidays).