Supported Internships - everything you need to know

Supported Internships - information for employers

A Supported Internship is a fantastic way for employers to help a young person with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) take their first step onto the career ladder.

They offer businesses a meaningful opportunity to shape the future of a young person with SEND. By providing a structured, supportive work placement, employers play a direct role in helping interns gain the skills, confidence and experience they need to take their first steps into employment.

These internships are designed to bridge the gap between education and the workplace. Interns spend one day a week in college and the rest in the workplace, giving them the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to perform well in their role.

A dedicated job coach works alongside the intern and your team during the early stages. As the intern becomes more confident, support is gradually reduced, but the job coach remains available whenever needed. This ensures they can develop practical skills that meet genuine business needs, while receiving the guidance required to succeed

Why should you take on a supported intern?

For employers, hosting a supported intern is not only an investment in a young person's future, but it also contributes to a more inclusive, diverse and productive workforce. Many businesses discover committed, enthusiastic interns who become valuable team members, bring fresh perspectives and enhance workplace culture.

Offering a supported internship demonstrates a commitment to social value, community engagement and equal opportunities. With the right support in place, businesses often discover committed, enthusiastic and highly capable young people who become real assets to their teams.

How much will it cost my organisation or business?

Nothing. Supported Internship placements are unpaid, as they form part of the young person's educational programme. The main goal is to help young people with SEND develop the skills they need for paid employment in the future.

Will the young person fit into my workplace?

Each intern is carefully matched to make sure their placement benefits both the young person and the organisation.We work closely with you to understand the role you can offer, ensuring the best possible match between the intern and your business. We may also recommend job carving, tailoring tasks to meet your business needs while drawing on the intern's strengths and abilities.

What support will I receive during the internship?

A job coach will work with you to organise the induction and settling‑in period and will be on hand to offer as much support as needed throughout.

The job coach will:

support induction and settling‑in
provide on‑the‑job guidance for both the intern and your team
help you make reasonable adjustments
gradually reduce support as the intern grows in confidence
remain available throughout the internship for any questions or concerns

Disability awareness training can also be provided and Access to Work may be able to fund specialist equipment or additional workplace support if needed.

What happens if things go wrong?

Support is available from the job coach and college. Early, honest communication usually means concerns can be resolved quickly and effectively.

What happens at the end of the internship?

The aim of a Supported Internship is to prepare young people for employment. If the intern has met the needs of your business, you may wish to offer them paid employment. However, this isn't always possible. You can still support their journey by providing a reference, recommending them to other employers, and offering constructive feedback to help them develop further