Colleague Spotlight: Sue Coleman
How Supported Internships Can Bridge the Gap
This week marked Supported Internship Day — a moment to recognise the achievements of young people with additional needs as they take their first steps into the world of work. At Surrey Choices, we’ve been celebrating by sharing real-life stories and case studies across our channels, highlighting the success and impact of our Supported Internship programmes.
Recent data shows that 13.4% of people aged 16 to 24 in the UK were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) between October and December 2024. This marks an increase of 1.3 percentage points from the same period in 2023.
These figures highlight a growing concern — particularly for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Many struggle to find or sustain employment without tailored support.
The Role of Supported Internships
Supported Internships are designed to help young people aged 16 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) move into meaningful employment. These programmes are delivered in partnership with education providers and employment services, offering work placements that typically last between six months and a year.
With the help of a dedicated job coach, interns gain hands-on experience while building the confidence and skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
Keeping NEET Young People Engaged
Young people with additional needs are more likely to become NEET and face barriers such as low confidence, limited social skills and past negative experiences. Traditional employment pathways often do not support their specific needs, leading to a cycle of short-term jobs or unemployment.
Supported Internships aim to break this cycle by providing a personalised and flexible approach. With one-to-one coaching, tailored vocational training and regular time in real workplaces, young people are supported to build confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose. Consistent mentorship also helps interns manage challenges and plan for long-term careers.
Most importantly, young people are encouraged to celebrate every milestone — whether it’s learning a new skill, completing a qualification, or securing a job — which boosts motivation and self-belief.
Our Collaboration with East Surrey College
At Surrey Choices, we work closely with East Surrey College to develop a sustainable model of support that continues beyond the internship itself.
Using the Place, Train, and Maintain approach, we make sure young people are placed in roles that suit their strengths and aspirations and that they receive structured, ongoing support tailored to their needs. We also deliver training and forums for employers, helping to create inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Impact and Achievements
Our Supported Internship programmes have had a real and lasting impact.
Nearly half of all participants have secured paid jobs or long-term placements — including roles in hospitality, insurance, higher education and healthcare. Others have achieved qualifications such as SIA licences, Level 2 Personal Training and Paediatric First Aid.
Some learners have completed maths and English qualifications, while others have returned to education with continued support from Surrey Choices.
Extending Support Beyond Internships
Not every young person who needs support has an EHCP. To address this gap, Surrey Choices took part in a national pilot programme for learners with additional needs but no formal plan.
Of the 18 learners involved, half secured paid employment in a range of industries; several returned to education; and the majority stayed engaged in employability training, social skills development and vocational learning. Employers also received inclusion training, helping to build a more supportive environment for all.
The Bigger Picture: Societal and Economic Benefits
Supporting young people into employment is not only a social responsibility — it makes economic sense too. Structured programmes like Supported Internships reduce long-term unemployment and reliance on public services while helping people live more fulfilled lives and become active members of their communities.
With only 5% of people with learning disabilities in paid employment — despite over 65% wanting to work — there’s a clear need for systemic change. Ongoing support and inclusive workplaces can help bridge that gap.
Moving Forward
We remain committed to expanding our employment support programmes and reaching more young people. By working with partners including Surrey County Council and West Sussex, we are continuing to deliver forums and training for employers — making inclusive hiring practices the norm.
Our aim is simple — to ensure that every young person, regardless of background or support needs, has access to meaningful and sustained work.
Conclusion
The success of our Supported Internship programmes shows just how powerful long-term support can be. While the non-EHCP pilot has now come to an end, it highlighted the importance of extending this kind of assistance to all young people who need it.
With strong partnerships and continued investment, we can build a more inclusive workforce — and a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone entering employment.
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