Share Your Story - Story Capture Questionnaire

Internships Work is a transformative initiative funded by the Department for Education, designed to grow the employment pathways of young individuals with additional needs through supported internships. Our goal is to provide these young adults with avenues for independence and broader life choices as they transition into adulthood.

By 2025, we aim to facilitate supported internships for 4,500 young adults aged 16 to 24 with additional needs who are currently enrolled in college and have an education health and care plan (EHCP).

Our approach includes:

• Engaging 800 employers to offer supported internship placements, complete with comprehensive training to ensure they can provide the necessary support to interns.
• Offering support, training, and resources to all Local Authorities in England, aiding in the establishment of robust SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) Employment Forums to promote employment for young individuals with additional needs.
• Training over 700 dedicated job coaches to assist young people throughout their internships.
• A Supported Internships Quality Assurance Framework (SIQAF) to guarantee that all supported internships are of high quality and provide a safe, supportive environment for participants.

In essence, Internships Work is committed to creating opportunities and positive experiences for young people with additional needs as they navigate the path to adulthood.

Whether you are a young person in a supported internship, a parent or carer, a job coach, an employer, a local authority commissioner, a provider, your unique journey provides invaluable insights into the positive impact and transformative experiences that Internships Work offers. By sharing your story, you contribute to a tapestry of experiences that reflect the diversity, challenges, and triumphs of all members of our community.

Each story shared is a beacon of inspiration and encouragement for others considering joining or supporting Internships Work. Your personal journey can be the catalyst that help someone to embark on their own journey of transformation and support.

Stories foster a sense of belonging and understanding. Through sharing your experiences, you help build a supportive and empathetic community where individuals see their challenges, hopes, and successes reflected and acknowledged.