Partner with Job Start Plus
Develop Talent. Strengthen Your Workforce. Transform Lives.
Job Start Plus is a national initiative designed to address youth unemployment and help young people successfully transition from school to work.
The programme targets young persons aged 16–24 (or up to 34 for individuals with disabilities) who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET) and have little to no work experience. These individuals are prepared through structured training and are ready and available for full-time work placements.
Through strategic partnerships with employers, Job Start Plus provides participants with meaningful work experience, while helping businesses access emerging talent.
Why Partner with Job Start Plus?
Today’s young people are tomorrow’s workforce. Through Job Start Plus, employers gain access to enthusiastic individuals who are ready to build experience while contributing to business operations. Job Starters will add great value because:
- They are eager to learn, build their experience and apply their skills.
- Their enthusiasm will bring a new energy to the workplace.
- They can help you to understand, communicate and tap into the younger market.
- They have a natural affinity and ability to quickly understand and apply different technologies, thereby driving innovation and moving your organization forward.
By partnering with the programme, you help young people gain the work experience employers often require. Your organisation can also:
- Access new and emerging talent
- Support workforce development
- Strengthen families and communities
- Transform lives
- Contribute to Barbados’s growth and development
Meet Work-Ready Candidates
All participants complete the World of Work (WOW) training programme before placement. Training includes:
- Workplace Communication
- Emotional intelligence
- Conflict resolution and teamwork
- Customer service
- Time management
- Work ethics and appropriate workplace behaviour
- Employment relations
- Occupational safety and health
- Resume preparation and interview skills
- Other key life and employability skills
This preparation helps participants transition into the workplace with greater confidence, professionalism, and readiness to contribute.
We Make Recruitment Easier
The Ministry works alongside employers throughout the placement process by providing:
- Candidate screening
- Shortlisting and matching
- Placement planning support
- Workplace visits
- Participant monitoring
- Support to address performance issues
- Additional participant training and support
Our goal is to make the partnership simple, effective, and beneficial for both employers and young people.
Employer Commitment
We welcome partnerships across all sectors, including:
- Retail and customer service
- Hospitality and tourism
- Manufacturing
- Administrative and office support
- Construction and skilled trades
- Creative and technical fields
Opportunities can be offered by:
- Private Companies
- Third Sector Organizations (Non-Government, Community and Faith Based organizations)
- Self-employed professionals, skilled tradespersons, craft persons and artisans
To participate as a Job Start Plus Partner, organisations and self-employed individuals are asked to:
- Provide structured work placements for 3 months to 1 year
- Offer meaningful, supervised work experience and mentorship
- Provide a stipend to assist with transportation and meals
This investment helps ensure participants can fully engage in the opportunity.
Can employers recruit participants into permanent positions?
Yes. Employers are encouraged to transition successful participants into employment opportunities whenever possible.
Employers are also invited to fill vacancies through Job Start Plus employment intermediation and job matching support.
Building Inclusive Workplaces
Job Start Plus supports the participation of young people with disabilities and assists employers in creating accessible and inclusive workplaces.
Support available may include:
- Disability awareness and sensitivity training
- Workplace accommodation guidance
- Technical support
- Assistive technology resources
- Financial assistance for workplace adaptations
Together, we can create opportunities for all young people to succeed.
How the Partnership Works
Step 1: Register Your Interest
Contact our team to discuss your workforce needs.
Step 2: Develop a Placement Plan
Identify roles, supervision arrangements, and placement requirements.
Step 3: Candidate Matching
We recommend suitable candidates based on your needs, then facilitate interviews and selection.
Step 4: Sign the Job Pact
Formalise the partnership through a Job Start Plus agreement.
Step 5: Welcome Your Job Starter
Receive ongoing support throughout the placement period.
All participants are covered by personal injury and limited liability insurance.
Become a Job Start Plus Partner Today
Email: jobstartplus@labour.gov.bb
Phone: (246) 535-1400
WhatsApp: (246) 832-0487
Location: 3rd Floor West, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens Close, St. Michael
Help Shape Barbados’ Future Workforce
Provide opportunity. Develop talent. Strengthen Barbados.
