£1.6m boost to create new jobs for young people in South Yorkshire

An investment of £1.6m has been secured to create new jobs for young people across South Yorkshire as part of Barnsley’s trailblazing Pathways to Work initiative. 

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is funding a Wage Subsidy Scheme, with £320,000 allocated specifically for Barnsley businesses. The scheme will support the creation of jobs for young people aged up to 30.

Born in Barnsley, Pathways to Work has become a leading example of how local innovation can tackle economic inactivity by bringing together health, skills, and employment support. 

Barnsley Council established the Pathways to Work Commission, chaired by former Health Secretary Rt Hon Alan Milburn, to explore the challenges people face getting into work. Its findings revealed that seven in ten people want to work but are held back by challenges such as health issues, limited skills, or low confidence. 

Pathways to Work is now helping to shape national policy and has secured significant funding for South Yorkshire as one of the UK Government’s trailblazer areas. It’s one of the government’s nine £125 million ‘inactivity trailblazers’ across the country.  

Then Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall MP endorsed Pathways to Work on two visits to the town since its launch, describing Barnsley as “leading the way” in tackling economic inactivity.   

Under the Wage Subsidy Scheme, small businesses in Barnsley with fewer than 100 employees can apply for 12 weeks of wage support at National Minimum Wage. Employers can offer flexible hours (16 to 35 hours per week) to create up to five new jobs lasting at least six months.  

Every participant will receive ongoing support from Barnsley Council’s employment specialists, ensuring they settle in and succeed in their new role. 

This funding forms part of a £1.6m regional allocation across South Yorkshire’s four local authorities, supporting SYMCA’s Growth Plan and the mission to boost economic growth locally and nationally. 

With strong local commitment and continued national backing, South Yorkshire is leading the way in shaping the future of work — creating opportunities for homegrown talent and helping young people thrive. 

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said:

“Barnsley’s Pathways to Work is transforming lives. Nearly 1,100 Barnsley people have already received support, with 155 progressing into jobs, and many more moving into training or volunteering. We’re breaking down barriers and creating real opportunities for those who need them most.

“The Wage Subsidy Scheme is a practical way for local employers to invest in homegrown talent and help young people build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the world of work. 

“For Barnsley’s small businesses, this is a low‑risk way to grow. Eligible employers can receive up to 12 weeks of wages at National Minimum Wage, backed by dedicated employment support to help new starters settle in and succeed. 

“Working closely with our local employers, our ambition is to make Barnsley a place where opportunity is within everyone’s reach, and the Wage Subsidy Scheme will help us to achieve this.” 

Full details on the Wage Subsidy Scheme can be found on the Barnsley Council website. 

To sign up for employment support in Barnsley, visit pathways-to-work.co.uk.