Supported Internships in West Sussex: A Shared Responsibility for Young People’s Futures

To Employers, Parents, and Young People of West Sussex:

We are at a pivotal moment for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in West Sussex. It is time to create new opportunities that will lead to sustained, paid employment and improve lives. With the launch of a new Supported Internship Programme by the Growing West Sussex Alliance, we invite employers, parents, and young people to join us in supporting this vital initiative.

What is a Supported Internship?

A Supported Internship is a structured, work-based study programme designed for young people aged 16 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).  These internships combine time in a real workplace with learning and support from an education provider.  The core of the programme is a substantial work placement, where young people gain valuable skills, confidence, and experience, supported by a dedicated job coach who helps them thrive in their role.  While supported Internships are unpaid, they are part of a full-time education course and typically last between six months to a year.  The ultimate aim is for the young person to move into sustained, paid employment, equipped with the tools and experience to succeed.

A Call to Employers: Open Your Doors to New Talent

We know that with the right support, young people with special educational needs (SEND) are more than capable of thriving in the workplace. Supported internships provide young people with the essential work experience, skills, and confidence to transition into long-term employment.

Why Should Employers Get Involved?

• New talent: Supported interns bring unique perspectives and diverse skills to the workplace, benefiting your business.
• Support structure: Interns are supported by expert job coaches who ensure both the intern and employer have the guidance and support needed for success.
• Positive impact: By opening your doors to young people with SEND, you help create a more inclusive, diverse workforce, while also making a significant contribution to the local community.
• Employer incentives: Government funding opportunities and a well-structured internship programme mean minimal disruption while making a lasting difference to the lives of young people.

We urge employers to consider the long-term benefits of hiring young people with SEND, from creating more inclusive workplaces to reducing the long-term costs of high-needs support.

A Call for Parents: Empower Your Children, Enrich their Future

Parents are the strongest advocates for their children, and your support is vital to the success of a Supported Internship Programme. These opportunities empower young people to build independence, learn new skills, and become a vital part of the workforce.

How Can Parents Support the Programme?

• Encourage ambition: Help your child explore supported internships as a real route to sustainable, paid work.
• Provide emotional support: Transitioning from school to work can be a daunting experience for both parents and young people. Encouragement and reassurance can help ease this transition.
• Work alongside educators: Ensure that your child is getting the best possible advice and guidance in choosing their post-16 path.
• Help connect with employers: Your local networks can be a crucial link in securing valuable work placements.

Your support and encouragement will help your child discover the joys of independence and fulfilment through meaningful employment.

A Call for Young People: Seize Your Opportunity

If you are a young person with SEND, this is your chance to show the world what you are capable of achieving. A Supported Internship is not just a chance to work, it’s a chance to thrive in a real-world setting, develop the skills needed for your career, and gain the confidence you need to succeed.

Why Should You Take Part?

• Work experience: Supported internships provide hands-on work experience in a supportive environment, setting you up for long-term success.
• Paid employment: The end goal of a supported internship is to help you move into sustained paid employment.
• Personal growth: The skills and confidence you develop will not only prepare you for work but will improve your overall well-being.
• Belonging: You will be a valued member of your workplace, with the support of a job coach ensuring you succeed.

This is your future, and with the right support, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Why We Need Supported Internships in West Sussex: Our Community’s Responsibility

At present, West Sussex is facing a critical gap in opportunities for young people with SEND to gain meaningful work experience. Nationally, only about 1% of young people with SEND are participating in supported internships, and West Sussex is currently falling behind. We are determined to change that.

The Growing West Sussex Board and West Sussex County Council is committed to the creation of new internships, ensuring that young people with SEND are given the chance to build skills that lead to sustainable, paid employment. This is an opportunity to transform the future of young people with SEND, improving their confidence, well-being, and sense of belonging, while benefiting employers, families, and the wider community.

What Next?

• Employers: Consider offering internships in your workplace.
• Educators: Start conversations with students and families about the opportunities available through supported internships.
• Parents: Support your child in pursuing a path that leads to independence and success.
• Young People: Embrace this opportunity for real world experience and the chance to thrive in a career.

Together, we can make West Sussex a leading example of inclusivity and opportunity for young people with SEND. Let’s build a future where every young person is valued, capable, and ready to succeed.

Join us in creating a world of opportunity for young people with SEND.