Council and Colleges Team Up to Boost Employment Opportunities for Young People with Disabilities

New opportunities and supported employment for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities was the focus of a Supported Internships event this week.

The event, hosted by the team at the Lake House in Crosby was attended by professionals, young people and educators who enjoyed presentations on Supported Internships from a variety of educational providers and an empowering Q&A session with current participants.

Supported Internships help young people aged 16 -24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan into paid employment and give them the confidence and skills to feel comfortable in the world of work.  

Cllr Diane Roscoe, Sefton Council Cabinet Member for Education said:

“We want to make sure that education and employment opportunities in Sefton benefit everyone in the community and do everything we can to help those who might need a little bit more support to achieve what they set their minds to.

“I’m proud to see the Council and local colleges working together to make this aspiration a reality through Supported Internships. They provide young people with vital experience, knowledge and crucially, confidence in the workplace.

“Young people with additional needs have a lot to offer employers and these internships provide that wraparound support to ensure that everyone involved finds the experience valuable and enriching.

“I would encourage businesses and young people to find out more about this superb programme and find out more on our website.

The event saw current participant Aaron share his journey into the world of Personal Training and Fitness where he hopes to gain further experience in his journey towards a career in the field of Physiotherapy. Sophie shared her experience of gaining confidence and more freedom in her journey to work in childcare with a placement at her old primary school starting this week.

The programme, delivered in partnership with Hugh Baird College, Southport College and SWRAC provides students with a work mentor, transport support, tailored tutoring and formal qualifications alongside a real life work placement with nearly half gaining full time paid employment following the internship.

You can find out more about Supported Internships by visiting our Local Offer website or emailing [email protected]