In today’s competitive business landscape, finding innovative ways to develop talent while making a meaningful social impact is increasingly important. Supported internships from Shaw Trust offer businesses a unique opportunity to achieve both goals simultaneously, helping young people with additional needs gain valuable work experience.
What is a Supported Internship?
Shaw Trust’s Supported Internship is a study programme designed for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and want to move into employment but need additional support. These internships typically last for a year, with interns having the opportunity to complete three different placements. What makes these internships special is the comprehensive support system. Each intern receives guidance from a dedicated job coach and gains valuable workplace experience while developing job-specific skills and earning qualifications.
When we joined the Internship Programme in 2019, we didn’t know what to expect, but now we know that we made a very good decision to join! Every Intern is a different character, and we always have fun while we are working hard.
-The Works
Why Your Business Should Get Involved
1. No-Cost Talent Development
Hosting a supported intern introduces fresh talent to your workplace without the financial burden of traditional recruitment. Shaw Trust provides the necessary support structure, including job coaches who help source suitable candidates, arrange work trials, and develop opportunities tailored to your business needs. This arrangement allows you to assess potential future employees in a real working environment with minimal risk.
2. Professional Support from Job Coaches
Your business doesn’t navigate this journey alone. Shaw Trust’s professional job coaches work alongside your team and the intern, ensuring a smooth integration into your workplace. These coaches help develop appropriate tasks, provide ongoing support, and facilitate communication between all parties involved. This support continues even after the internship, with three months of transitional assistance if the relationship progresses to paid employment.
3. Fresh Perspectives and Workplace Diversity
Supported interns bring unique perspectives and innovative approaches to your workplace. Companies like Transport for London, WHSmith, Nando’s, and Costa have already discovered how these interns can contribute meaningfully to their operations. Increasing workplace diversity has been shown to enhance problem-solving capabilities and foster a more inclusive company culture.
4. Strengthen Corporate Social Responsibility
By participating in the Shaw Trust Supported Internship programme, your business demonstrates a tangible commitment to social responsibility. In a marketplace where consumers increasingly value ethical business practices, supporting employment opportunities for young people with learning disabilities showcases your company’s values in action. With only 5% of adults with disabilities in England registered as full-time employed, your involvement makes a real difference.
5. Build Your Future Workforce
The statistics speak for themselves: 70% of supported interns progress into paid employment. Employers who have participated in the programme report that interns often become valued, loyal employees who bring enthusiasm and dedication to their roles. Companies like Bear Hugs Day Nursery have successfully transitioned interns into permanent staff members, benefiting from their developed skills and familiarity with the organisation.
I would consider R for a prospective vacancy. R’s knowledge retention allows him to employ new skills acquired readily, to the benefit of the business. He actively listens to instructions and enjoys answering questions around what he has learned. R’s route knowledge of LU is fantastic as is his ability to provide alternative routes during service degradation.
-Transport for London
How to Get Involved
Shaw Trust currently offers Supported Internships across numerous locations including Reading, High Wycombe, Heathrow, West London (HS2), and London with TfL.
To explore how your business can benefit from hosting a supported intern:
Email: [email protected]
Alternatively, visit the Shaw Trust website and complete the contact form to speak directly with a coordinator about tailoring an internship to your business needs.
By partnering with Shaw Trust, your business can play a vital role in helping young people with learning disabilities move toward paid employment while strengthening your own organisation in the process.
Your next valuable team member might be just one email away.
Learn more about Shaw Trust Supported Internships here
