The government is expanding its Jobs Guarantee scheme to offer thousands of young disabled people and those with long-term health conditions fast-tracked, fully funded jobs. This move is part of a £3.5 billion investment aimed at addressing the UK’s disability employment gap.
Under the expanded scheme, eligible young people receiving health benefits will be offered a guaranteed job on a voluntary basis from week 13 following their Work Capability Assessment. They will receive mentoring and tailored support for mental health, finances, and housing to prepare them for work, with employers also receiving support for onboarding costs.
The government will cover 100% of wage costs for up to 25 hours a week for six months. This expansion, which begins in April 2027, builds on the existing Jobs Guarantee scheme launched earlier this year for long-term unemployed young people aged 18 to 24 who have claimed Universal Credit for 18 months.
The initiative is intended to help up to 90,000 young people into work by the end of the Parliament. It also includes the 'right to try' guarantee, announced earlier this year, which allows those on sickness benefits to attempt work without immediate fear of losing their benefits.