UNEMPLOYED graduates could be given a helping had to get a foothold on the career ladder by the University of Bolton.

The university is offering 30 young graduates a paid six month placement as part of the Government's £2 billion Kickstart scheme to boost youth employment during coronavirus pandemic, which has hit the economy hard.

The university has been accepted by the Department of Work and Pensions to join the scheme announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak earlier this yea

It will partner with its local Jobcentre Plus office to advertise the opportunities.

Thirty young people who are on universal credit, will be offered a six month work placement and their wages paid for by the Government.

The university has pledged to top up the rate of pay so that those on placement receive the voluntary living wage.

The university says it has signed up as part of its commitment to the local community and its aim of supporting graduates employment.

Due to the nature of the projects and work available, candidates must hold a degree.

The university said it also plans to offer support to enhance candidates’ employment prospects externally.

Professor George E Holmes DL, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, said: “We are proud to be an institution that is embedded in the local community and we are committed to supporting local people and the local economy.

“The lockdown as a result of this pandemic has taken a big toll on many people’s livelihoods, especially young people.

“This scheme announced by the Government will enable us to give 30 young people a fantastic opportunity career wise.

“They will be able to develop, add to their skills set and receive the best mentoring support. It will literally help to kickstart them back into employment after a very productive six-month placement with the University.

“We believe we can offer mentoring and meaningful work experience to those on placements.”

It is understood a number of Bolton businesses and organisations have expressed an interest in helping the town's young unemployed.

The scheme is designed to help 16-24-year-olds.

The Government launched the Kickstart scheme to tackle the high level of youth unemployment brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

It aims to create thousands of jobs for young people and employers across the country have been urged to register.

The Government will pay 100 per cent of the age-relevant national minimum wage, national insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week, which employers will be able to top up.