Supported internships are structured study programmes, which are open to 17 to 24-year-olds who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and live in Hillingdon. They are designed to develop transferable skills, knowledge and attitudes in preparation for paid employment.
Through training and direct work experience, young people will develop employability skills, self-confidence, job-specific skills and Maths, English and ICT skills, whilst working alongside employees in a real employment setting.
Learning is based in a workplace and young people are taught the skills they need to find paid employment. They will also have the chance to study English, Maths and relevant qualifications, where appropriate.
Supported internships last for a minimum of 6 months and are unpaid. At the end of the programme, wherever possible, young people are supported to move into paid employment.
National Development Team for inclusion (NDTi) has produced an easy read document, designed to help young people understand what a supported internship is.
If you would like to apply for any of the below supported internships in Hillingdon, you can contact the provider directly, discuss in your EHCP annual review or email our Special Educational needs team at senadmin@hillingdon.gov.uk.
Hillingdon Council Project Search
This transition-to-work programme is open to 17 to 24-year-olds with autism or a learning disability who are eligible for an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP).
The programme is based at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge, and is run in partnership with Orchard Hill College, Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support (HACS) and DFN Project SEARCH.
DFN Project SEARCH is a partnership venture which prepares young people with learning difficulties / disabilities for competitive employment. The aim of the project is to provide young people between the ages of 17-25 years with a one year supported internship programme.
This is the 5th year of a continued partnership between London Heathrow Marriott Hotel (business host), Meadow High School (Education Provider) and Hillingdon Council.
For more details about the programme, eligibility criteria and contact details, email marriottprojectsearch@gmail.comor call 01895 443310.
Pavilions Shopping Centre Supported Internship
The Pavilions Supported Internship provides a range of retail placements in Uxbridge, with job coach support and an onsite tutor provided by Prospects.
Access to Work grants - can fund additional support or equipment for people with disabilities to remain in work.
Support to Work - Scope's online and telephone support programme for disabled people in England and Wales who are applying for jobs.
Mencap - works with many organisations that provide better employment prospects for people with a learning disability.
HACS - delivers a Stepping Stones to Life Skills and Employment project for young people affected by autism and learning disabilities. They manage the Rural Team Rooms at the Rural Activity Garden Centre and can provide training and experience in a variety of areas.
Hillingdon P3 - provides advice for young people on a variety of issues, including employment and training.
GOV.uk - provides information and support on looking for work if you are disabled.
Routes Into Work Guide - provides information about options for young people with SEND to help them move into paid employment.
