This initiative, from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), sees incentives of £3,000 for businesses that hire young people who have been unemployed for at least six months.

Targeting those aged 18-24, the initiative is expected to help support the recruitment of 60,000 young people over the next three years.

This is part of a wider £1bn young employment drive that is aiming to unlock up to 200,000 new jobs and apprenticeships.

The FMB has welcomed this move, highlighting the role the construction industry plays in youth employment generally.

“A £3,000 hiring bonus can make a real difference by helping to reduce the upfront risk of taking someone on, particularly at a time when cost pressures remain acute for SME builders,” said Brian Berry, CEO at the FMB.

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“With the right approach, this funding has the potential to unlock more opportunities for young people while supporting small firms that are keen to invest in the next generation.”

However, Brian has warned that cost is only part of the issue and that — as employers —construction firms require greater confidence that the support will be sustained.

“Through initiatives such as the FMB’s Build Academy pilot, delivered in collaboration with the CITB and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College, we have seen how employer?led preparation, meaningful work experience and ongoing support can turn a short?term start into a sustained job,” added Brian.

“Funding must be easy to access, aligned with real vacancies, and backed by practical support if this scheme is to be genuinely transformative.”