The Freight Transport Association has welcomed a government scheme to subsidise job creation for 16 to 24-year-olds, but said that people of all ages should have access to the right training to meet the needs of the logistics sector.
Elizabeth de Jong, policy director at the FTA, said: “There is some great news for logistics in the chancellor’s Plan for Jobs. The fortunes of the logistics industry depend on demand being restored in the economy and the measures to boost demand in the hospitality sector gives hope to the supply chain businesses which service them.
“Protecting jobs across our sector must also be a priority, and the job retention bonus will help keep jobs while demand rebuilds across the economy. But while we welcome the increased training of younger people proposed in his speech, we are hoping for further initiatives to re-train those of all ages who have been made redundant.
She said that the FTA has been campaigning for the Apprenticeship Levy to become a Skills Levy, which she said would mean “people of all ages could have the right training to meet the needs of our industry”.
Yesterday chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the Kickstart Scheme: a new programme that will directly pay employers to create new jobs for 16 to 24-year-olds. If an employer creates a position with a minimum of 25 hours per week paid at least the National Minimum Wage, the government will pay the employees wages for six months, plus an amount to cover overheads.
Sunak said: “That means, for a 24-year-old, the grant will be around £6,500. Employers can apply to be part of the scheme from next month, [August] with the first ‘kickstarters’ in their new jobs this autumn.”
Entries to the 24th Supply Chain Excellence Awards can nominate a Rising Star, an award is for young people starting their careers in supply chain and logistics who demonstrate enthusiasm, talent and the promise of great things to come. The winner will be revealed on 12 November. For more information, including how to enter and sponsorship opportunities, contact daniel.jessop@akabomedia.co.uk
