Supported Internships
What is a supported internship?
A supported internship helps young people with additional needs get ready for work.
It is a study programme, not a job.
The main aim is to help young people move into paid work in the future.
For more information on Supported Internships, contact: Kuldeep.Uppal@leicester.gov.uk
Who are supported internships for?
Supported internships are for young people who:
• Are aged 16 to 24
• Have Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND)
• Have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
• Want to work and learn new skills
What happens on a supported internship?
During a supported internship:
• You spend most of your time at a workplace
• You learn real job skills
• You are supported while you learn
The programme usually lasts 6 to 12 months.
What support is given?
You will get help from:
• A job coach
A job coach helps you learn your tasks and feel confident at work
• A college or training provider
They support your learning alongside the work placement
Support is slowly reduced as you become more confident and independent.
Will I be paid?
• Supported internships are unpaid
• This is because they are part of education
• The goal is to help you move into paid work after the programme
Information for Parents and Carers
Supported internships help young people prepare for adult life and work.
They:
• Focus on skills for real jobs
• Build confidence and independence
• Offer personalised support
• Aim to lead to paid employment
Young people stay in education while learning in a workplace.
Information for Employers
Supported internships help employers support young people into work.
Employers:
• Offer a real work placement
• Receive support from a job coach
• Help create an inclusive workplace
• Are not required to offer a job at the end
Many employers choose to offer paid work if the internship goes well.
What is the main goal?
The main goal of a supported internship is:
To help young people move into paid, sustainable employment.
For more information on Supported Internships, contact: Kuldeep.Uppal@leicester.gov.uk