A SCHEME which was launched to get young people into work in Barnsley has expanded thanks to the next phase of a £1m project.

Funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), the wage subsidy scheme was previously targeted at smaller employers to open up opportunity for residents under 30.

But the scheme has now been expanded thanks to £1m in funding, meaning that businesses with up to 250 employees can now take part.

Employers can receive up to £6,000 over 13 weeks to help cover wage costs at National Minimum Wage.

This makes recruitment more affordable and lower risk, while giving young people the chance to gain valuable workplace experience.

Jobs can range from 16 to 35 hours a week and must be sustained for at least six months.

The expanded scheme builds on the town’s Pathways to Work project, council bosses say.

Before its inception, a study revealed that seven in ten local people want to work but are held back by challenges such as health issues, limited skills or low confidence.

Former Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall MP endorsed Pathways to Work on two visits to the town since its launch, describing Barnsley as ‘leading the way’ in tackling economic inactivity.

Since its launch the scheme has helped more than 1,400 Barnsley residents and 300 of those have already moved into jobs.

Councillor Andy Cudworth, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and assets, said: “Pathways to Work is changing lives in Barnsley, helping people overcome barriers and take steps towards employment.

“Expanding the wage subsidy scheme is an important milestone, opening the door for more employers to offer local people valuable experience, greater confidence and a route into lasting work.( “For businesses, it offers a practical, lower-risk way to grow their workforce while investing in homegrown talent.

“For young people, it’s a chance to take their first step into work with the right support in place.( “Our goal is to make Barnsley a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and this scheme is helping us turn that ambition into reality.”