YESS commencing from 1 October 2018.

YESS is a new work experience scheme targeted exclusively at young jobseekers who are either long-term unemployed or face significant barriers to employment.  Work placements will be of three months duration with participants engaging in 24 hours work experience over per week (over three to four days).  Participation on the scheme will be wholly voluntary and participants will receive an allowance of €229.20 per week for the duration of their placement.

Commenting at the launch of the scheme, Minister Regina Doherty said:

“I am very pleased to announce the launch of the Youth Employment Support Scheme. Although unemployment figures have fallen, youth unemployment remains a concern. The new scheme, along with many other employment support measures, demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to helping our young people break the vicious cycle of ‘no experience – no work or no work – no experience’. The scheme will provide young people with the opportunity to learn important work and social skills in a supportive environment while on a work placement, thereby helping them to increase their employment prospects.”