Businesses in Scotland are to be given financial incentives to encourage them to hire more youngsters and curb youth unemployment across the country.

Last month, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) announced that the number of Brits under 24 not in employment had reached one million for the first time.

The £1.5 million scheme was launched by youth employment minister Angela Constance, as part of an initiative which will look to create 1,000 jobs in the space of three years for disadvantaged youngsters.

Ms Constance said: "We know that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as those who have been in care or young carers, find this more difficult. That's why I am targeting £1.5 million to create up to 1,000 opportunities."

Companies taking part in the scheme will be given £2,000 each in order to boost the chances of them hiring someone aged between 16 and 24 years old.

Posted by Lee Thrace