A Cumbrian training provider has urged the county's employers to take advantage of the Government's £2bn "Kickstart" scheme, and has highlighted that it can help businesses with the application process.

PHX Training has sought to reassure businesses in the county that it can take the lead in submitting an application on behalf of any firm seeking to create 30 or more new roles under the Government's new Kickstart scheme, designed to help young people out of work get into the job market in light of the continued disruption caused by Covid-19.

PHX Training can also help businesses in Cumbria looking to create fewer than 30 new roles under the scheme.

Managing director Briony Fawcett stressed that the scheme is a "real opportunity" for employers in Cumbria.

"Please don’t be put off by the application process," she said. "We can help take care of the groundwork in submitting the application whether you have 30 applicants or not.

“This allows businesses to focus on every-day business needs whilst we pursue their application on their behalf working closely with them.”

For each job placement, funding will cover 100 per cent of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, the associated employer National Insurance contributions and the employer’s minimum automatic enrolment contributions.

There will also be extra funding to support young people to build their experience and help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart Scheme funded job.

PHX Training’s offer includes claiming the funding for the 25 hours work per week which is repaid to the business directly, claiming the £1,500 grant which is repaid directly, extensive training and support to the Kickstart candidate, specialised tutors and work coaches support, direct links to job centres and support in finding Kickstart candidates.

PHX Training delivers government backed initiatives including adult skills, employability, apprenticeships and work based learning.