The Scottish Government is encouraging young people starting work, or who have started a job in the last three months, including temporary Christmas jobs to check if they qualify for a Job Start Payment.
The one-off cash payment of £250 is open to 16-24 year olds who have been out of paid work and on a qualifying benefit for at least six months - the payment rises to £400 if the person has a child.
The job must average 12 hours per week, over a four-week period, but it does not need to be permanent.
The money can be spent on anything they need such as travel costs, lunches, tools or new clothes.
Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “ Covid-19 has had a major impact on the job market and this is expected to have a significant impact on prospects for many young people.
“We don’t want the costs of starting a new job to be what stops people taking up opportunities.”
Ms Somerville added that even if the young person has already started in their new role, including seasonal work, they can still apply for Job Start Payment for up to three months after their start date.
She added: “I strongly encourage any young people who have recently started a new job or about to start a new job to check if they are eligible for Job Start Payment and apply now.”
Andrew, 24, from Paisley who received the Job Start Payment said: “I was going to struggle to buy a monthly bus ticket and good clothes for the job along with providing for my family.
“I got the payment, which has allowed me to take up the offer of employment without having to worry about money.
“The Job Start Payment meant that I didn’t need to decide between providing for my family or starting a new job.”
To find out more or apply, visit mygov.scot here or call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222 - lines are open 8am to 6pm.
