The MP for Warwick and Leamington, Matt Western, has welcomed the Youth Jobs Grant Scheme, saying he believes it will "play a key role in supporting young people in securing employment and the businesses employing them".

The scheme launched last month and comes at a time where over one million young people are not in education, employment or training, which many have warned risks a 'lost generation'.

The Government have announced a range of measures as part of the Youth Guarantee which is the Government's commitment which they say will ensure every young person can access learning, work or an apprenticeship.

The Youth Jobs Grant Scheme is part of this Guarantee and allows eligible employers to claim £3,000 for every eligible young person they hire.

Commenting on the scheme, Matt Western said: "It is not acceptable to the Government or I that we allow a generation of young people to be in limbo when they desperately want to work.

"This scheme is an important part of a wider programme to get more young people into education, employment or training and I hope local employers and young people will be able to utilise it.

"I'm also keen to hear from both employers and young people looking for work about the scheme and how it is working well or could be improved. I'll endeavour to raise any feedback with the Government to ensure we have a scheme which is working for our towns and villages."

The grant is aimed at 18- to 24-year-olds who have been on Universal Credit for six months and are looking for work.

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Employers can employ for grants online here and can see further details regarding eligibility and requirements here.