Rhian's Story

Witnessing My Son’s Self-Worth Transformation

Rhian Barker, a teaching assistant from Hartlepool, Cleveland, was determined to find the right path for her son, Robert. When Hartlepool College of Further Education introduced the idea of a supported internship* at North Tees Hospital, Rhian was intrigued but cautious. The prospect of Robert losing his Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) if he joined the programme was a significant concern.

However, a conversation with Robert’s mentor, Nickie, helped ease her worries. The programme turned out to be life-changing: after completing the internship, Robert secured a zero-hour contract with the NHS and gained the confidence and independence he needed to thrive.

Read Robert's story of his supported internship.

A New Beginning

Before starting the internship, Robert faced challenges at college. Despite receiving 1:1 support, he found it difficult to engage.

“He didn’t really enjoy college and it was a real struggle for Robert to see any positives in attending,” says Rhian.

But the supported internship programme offered a different path. The opportunity to work as a facilities assistant at North Tees Hospital provided a structured yet supportive environment tailored to Robert’s strengths.

A Transformational Experience

As the internship unfolded, Rhian watched her son undergo a remarkable transformation.

"I have loved watching Robert going from a young man filled with anxiety and very little self-worth to a brave gentleman who is passionate about his work and goes to work full of confidence and smiling every day," she says proudly.

One defining moment in Robert’s journey was his independent use of the NHS shuttle bus, which runs between Hartlepool Hospital and North Tees. It was a clear sign of the independence he was building.

A Future Full of Ambitions

Robert’s dedication paid off. After he finished the internship, he secured a zero-hour contract within the NHS—a steppingstone toward long-term employment. Rhian is confident that this is just the beginning.

“I have every confidence that he will flourish and will be given contracted hours within the near future,” she says.

Rhian attributes much of Robert’s success to the tireless support of his mentors, Nickie and Natalie.

“The difference they have both made to, not only my son’s life, but our family’s life, is unbelievable. They have given him so much confidence and self-belief but most importantly, he now has self-worth. From the foundations they have both given him, I really think he will go from strength to strength, and I think big things will come his way!”

“Believe in your child.” — Robert’s mum, Rhian, to other parents of young people with additional needs.

Parent-to-Parent: Rhian’s Words to Other Families

“Believe in your child and talk to the mentors,” Rhian shares, “I honestly believe that this course has made Robert the man he is today. The progress he has made within the last 12 months has been phenomenal, and none of this would have been possible without NHS Choices College.”

The journey has transformed more than Robert’s life—it has given Rhian and her family a new perspective on his capabilities and future potential.

Start Your Supported Internship Journey

If you’re a parent considering a supported internship for your child, reach out to local council, and explore the possibilities! Like Robert’s, your child’s journey toward confidence and independence could start with a supported internship!

*What Are Supported Internships?

Supported internships are work-based training programmes for young people with additional needs, designed to help them gain skills and confidence for paid jobs. These programmes combine workplace experience with tailored support, such as job coaches.

How to Get Involved

To join a supported internship, contact your school, college, or local authority to explore available options. These programmes are typically for young people aged 16-25 with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). Some pilots also accept those without an EHCP. Your education provider or a job coach can guide you to the right programme and support you through the process.