Supported Internships

Access trained, enthusiastic employees at no cost to yourself.

Break down barriers to employing people with disabilities, with full support, whilst developing a diverse and positive workforce.

What are supported internships?

We will work with you to support disabled people aged 16-25 get into paid employment. This hands-on 12-month training programme is based mainly on the workplace. The programme ensures both the employer and intern are fully supported to ensure a positive experience for all.

The fresh perspective many young people bring can result in unexpected benefits for your business.

The young learners are very keen to pick up new skills, have a wonderful can-do attitude, are enthusiastic and happy to tackle new tasks. We can see the student’s confidence and creativity grow very quickly.These students are inspirational and its always a real pleasure to work with them, in fact they so very quickly fit into our FT family that it's always sad to see them leave"

Jacqui Dobson
Diversity and Inclusion Partner, Financial Times

Why host a supported internship?

For an average business, 20% of your customers are disabled people. A workforce that reflects the diverse range of customers it serves, and the community in which it is based, is beneficial for businesses. Working alongside a young person with a learning disability can increase your organisation’s understanding of your market. Furthermore, there is evidence that taking on someone with a learning disability can increase staff retention and reduce absenteeism.

"I would absolutely recommend that organisations join the supported internship program as a way to help young people into paid work- it's quick and easy to join. The communication is great and the students get so much out of the 'on the job' experience for their CV while participating in the day to day of work life"

Alex Collings
Youth Programme Manager, Stepney City Farm

How can you get involved?

Getting the right young person into the right job role with the right employer is crucial for the success of an internship, but we’re here to help. We will work with you to identify a job role that fulfils a real business need for your organisation, and ensure that the right person is matched to the job role for the supported internship programme.

You will need to provide effective line management and supervision of the intern as you would other employees, but we would provide the support to help you do so.