JobStart Scheme
If you are a working age (16 – 65 years old) benefit claimant who is unemployed or economically inactive and need support to enter or re-enter the labour market, the JobStart Scheme provides tailored, flexible, paid job opportunities in a supportive environment to help you improve your skills and experience.
About the JobStart Scheme
Important information
Important information Employers in all sectors in Northern Ireland can take part in the JobStart Scheme. Find out how at: JobStart.
The JobStart Scheme is for those who are unemployed or economically inactive and currently claiming working age benefits. JobStart provides an opportunity to enter the job market by offering six-month job opportunities with a range of employers across all job sectors in Northern Ireland.
These job opportunities may be extended to nine-months with reduced hours where flexibility is required and has been approved by a Jobs & Benefits office Work Coach.
All employers in Northern Ireland can take part in the JobStart Scheme.
Benefits of the JobStart Scheme
By taking part in the JobStart Scheme you will:
- develop your employment skills
- get a six or nine-month paid job opportunity
- enhance your CV and future job prospects
- increase your confidence
- learn important work skills like teamwork and problem solving and communication skills
By the end of your opportunity you may:
- be offered a permanent job by the employer
- have the skills and experience to help you find another job
- go into further education or training opportunities
Who can take part
To be eligible to apply for the JobStart Scheme you must:
- be unemployed or economically inactive and getting a working age benefit
- be sent to the scheme by a Work Coach in your local Jobs & Benefits office
- have a National Insurance number and the right to work in Northern Ireland
More information
If you receive a working age benefit contact 0800 001 5782 and ask to speak with a Work Coach or visit your local Jobs and Benefits office.
You cannot apply for the JobStart Scheme if:
- you do not get a working age benefit
- you are planning to take up an apprenticeship or enter education or further education within the next six months
- you are awaiting the outcome of a job interview
- your parent or guardian is receiving Child Benefit on your behalf
- you have already reached state pension age
If you cannot apply for the JobStart Scheme, you may be able to get help from the Work Experience Programme. There are opportunities available ranging from two to eight weeks. The Scheme is available for those aged 16 to 65 and more information is available at:
How much you will get paid
During the JobStart Scheme you will receive at least the National Minimum Wage/ National Living Wage, which will be determined by the participants age group, for a maximum of 25 hours per week. Your employer may choose to offer you additional hours at their own expense.
Finding JobStart opportunities
Current JobStart opportunities can be found at:
Further Information
To find out further information about the JobStart Scheme and the Work Experience Programme email:
Useful links