As part of the council’s ‘Next Generation’ spotlight week, we’re celebrating the achievements that support children and young people to thrive. One way we’re making a difference is by helping young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) gain valuable experience in the workplace.
Could you offer a young person with (SEND) the opportunity to gain some valuable work experience?
If you are an employer and willing to share your expertise, you could help more learners like Connor, 23, who recently joined a team at Ealing Council to complete a work experience placement.
Connor has additional learning needs and started thinking about employment while he was completing his supported internship at the University of West London. He then completed a work experience placement with Ealing Council’s employment and skills team helping with a range of administrative tasks.
“I enjoyed all the opportunities offered during my placement, which really enhanced my skills,” Connor said.
“The team was very helpful and always supportive. I improved my time management and IT skills, and my spelling.
“People should have opportunities like this so they can understand how employment works,” he added. “If you struggle, you can always ask. And, in my experience, the team I worked with was understanding and very patient.
“Having work experience is very valuable. You can try new skills and you can learn so much from being in the work environment.”
Following his work experience, Connor has been offered a temporary paid role within the council’s Skills and Employment team – a fantastic next step on his journey.
It can feel exceptionally challenging for young people with learning needs to gain useful experience in the workplace, which is why the council offers placements like this – and helps other employers to do the same.
More success stories
Connor’s experience is just one example. Over the past 3 years, 35 young people with SEND have moved into paid employment after completing a supported internship.
Harvey Duncan now works for Ealing Council’s family information service as a peer advocacy and web communications officer, helping young people have their voices heard.
Lydia Thevarasa works for West London NHS Trust as a staff engagement and training compliance administrator, after completing a supported internship.
Ibraheem Malik is a community connector for Ealing Mencap’s ‘Our Active Community’ project, supporting people with learning disabilities to get active.
These journeys show what’s possible when employers open their doors.
What do employers get out of it?
Young people like Connor are as valuable in the workplace as any other employee, and the retention rates show that they are more likely to remain in employment.
Supported internships are not just life-changing for young people, they’re game-changing for businesses. Inclusive recruitment brings fresh perspectives, strengthens teams, and taps into an untapped pool of talent.
If you’re an employer, the council can help you recruit through an internship or apprenticeship pathway. Our process makes it as straightforward as possible to get your journey started, and support will be provided to both you and your new recruits throughout.
Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes, said: “Everyone deserves the chance to find a job that’s right for them, and these opportunities are important to transform lives and bring value to employers. If you could offer inclusive employment, get in touch and take advantage of the support available to make a difference in your organisation and community.”
Take the next step
If you could offer inclusive employment, email Coni Buzuleac, the council’s SEND employment pathway advisor at buzuleacc@ealing.gov.uk
If you’re looking to start your career or explore supported internships, you can find guidance and vacancies on the Work Ealing website.
