RECRUITMENT

BPCA is working with the Department for Work and Pensions to encourage pest management businesses to take part in the Government’s new Youth Guarantee scheme.

The programme is designed to ensure every young person has access to employment, education or training. For our sector, it presents a practical opportunity to attract new talent into pest management, with structured support for employers built in.

At a time when many businesses are considering succession planning, technician recruitment, and long-term workforce resilience, this scheme is worth serious consideration.

Guaranteeing jobs

The Jobs Guarantee will guarantee a six-month paid job for up to 25 hours a week at minimum wage for every eligible 18-21-year-old who has been on Universal Credit and looking for work for 18 months.

The government will cover 100% of employment costs.

1,000 places will be available in Spring 2026 in specific regions:

• Birmingham and Solihull
• East Midlands
• Greater Manchester
• Hertfordshire and Essex
• Central and East Scotland
• Southwest and Southeast Wales.

 Full national rollout will begin in Autumn 2026.

Why this matters for pest management

Our industry needs a steady flow of new entrants. Professional pest management relies on skilled, trained technicians who understand public health, legislation and best practice.

Karen Dawes, BPCA Training and Development Manager, said:

“This is a genuinely exciting opportunity for our industry. We know businesses are looking for committed new starters, and there are young people out there who just need the right opportunity and support. The Youth Guarantee helps bridge that gap. If we get behind this as a sector, we can build the next generation of professional pest technicians.”

Is it right for your business?

The scheme may be particularly suitable if you:

• Are looking to grow your technician workforce
• Have capacity to mentor a young starter
• Want to build long-term workforce stability
• Are committed to raising standards and professionalism.

As with any recruitment decision, you should be clear about the role, expectations and supervision you can provide. The more defined the opportunity, the more likely the placement will be successful.

BPCA can support members in onboarding new technicians through structured programmes.

How can you be part of the Youth Guarantee?

Be part of the Youth Guarantee by:

• Recruiting more young people and more young apprentices
• Creating more work experience placements for young people, including with the DWP work experience programme
• Accessing DWP’s ‘employer commitment’ which offers a tailored recruitment service to help employers recruit, train and retain young people across Great Britain.

If you are interested in taking part:

• Contact your local Jobcentre Plus or DWP employer engagement team to discuss the Youth Guarantee in your area
• Consider which roles in your business could offer a structured entry route
• Let BPCA know you are exploring the scheme - training@bpca.org.uk

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