Future Creators will facilitate the scheme by working with local businesses and organisations to provide paid work placements for 16- to 24-year-olds claiming Universal Credit.
The Kickstart scheme was launched in September 2020 by the government's Department for Work and Pensions, in response to the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on the jobs market and young people.
Eligible candidates are matched by their Job Centre work coach to apply for a six-month government-funded work placement up until the end of 2021, with final placements ending in June 2022.
The BDBF gateway has secured more than 80 work placements across 20 local organisations and businesses, including the arts, publishing, PR and digital media.
Job roles such as Editorial Assistant, Dance Project Administrator and Radio Digital Producer will offer real opportunities to gain skills and experience in a competitive industry.
BDBF is offering 19 placements across a range of its departments, other organisations include Worthing Theatres and Museum, The Young Actors Group and event management company 18 Hours.
Peter Chivers, Director of Future Creators, who are facilitating the placements for the South East region, said:
"At a time when young people are facing career uncertainty and increasing mental health issues, we want this scheme to offer work placements that not only support youth employment but will keep the creative and cultural sector buoyant.
"We have been enthused by the number of businesses and organisations who have signed up to offer a range of high-quality roles and we"d love to hear from more who want to get involved.
"This scheme isn't about offering free internships, it"s about investing in young people's skills and quality of life so we can retain talented employees for the region."
Businesses offering work placements will receive wraparound support from Future Creators, from the initial application to the end of the placement. Badge Nation's Digital Badges are an integral part of this support, allowing candidates to build up a verifiable record of their achievements during their placement and organisations to demonstrate the investment they have put into designing their placement offer.
Additionally, Future Creators will provide an online learning portal and monthly virtual employee circles for candidates to ensure they are equipped to secure their next role, including CV writing, job search and interview preparation.
Employers also have the option to offer their young person a job at the end of the placement.
For further information about the Kickstart scheme in the South East visit: