Government U-turn to boost jobs for disabled youngsters
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Government yesterday announced a £6.8m U-turn to end an embarrassing anomaly which led to accusations of discrimination against disabled youngsters.
Earlier this month The Independent revealed that a programme for disabled people had been excluded from the Government's flagship scheme to reduce youth unemployment.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, last month launched the Youth Contract, the Coalition's £1bn centrepiece policy to reduce youth unemployment. Under the three-year scheme, 160,000 wage subsidies each worth up to £2,275 will be offered to employers who recruit 18- to 24-year-olds claiming benefits on the Work Programme and retain them for six months.
The subsidies did not extend to Work Choice, a programme designed specifically for people with learning, mental health and physical disabilities. But yesterday Maria Miller, the minister for Disabled People, announced the change of heart.
A spokesman for the Department for Work and Pensions said there was "potential to support more than 1,000 young disabled people a year", costing at least an extra £6.8m.
Kirsty McHugh, chief executive of the Employment Related Services Association (ERSA), said: "We're delighted the Government has finally seen sense and is extending the wage incentive to young disabled people."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments