A SCHEME has been launched to pay firms to provide jobs for unemployed people.
The scheme - run by Kirklees Council and Job Placement Link - reimburses employers with 67% of the wages paid to people on job placements.
Bosses will also be able to claim back costs associated with travel, training or tools needed by the employee.
The scheme is open to companies and organisations in Calderdale or Kirklees.
Placements should be for an initial period of nine months and 35 hours a week.
But it is hoped that people on placement will, in most cases, be offered permanent jobs.
The scheme also provides a personal mentor to help the company and employee get the most out of the placement.
Clr Andrew Pinnock, Kirklees Council Cabinet member responsible for regeneration, said: "We are delighted to have secured European Union funds to operate this innovative new scheme, which we hope will benefit local companies and unemployed people.
"We hope that subsidised wages and training expenses will encourage our employers to train new and existing staff, helping them to overcome common recruitment problems.
"At the same time, we are offering unemployed people the opportunity to develop new skills and gain valuable experience, while being paid a wage."
Companies interested in taking part can contact Robert Lake at Job Placement Link, Upperhead Row, Huddersfield HD2 2JL or email robert.lake@kirklees. gov.uk
