For too long, learning disabled and autistic young people have faced disproportionate barriers to employment. Despite their talents and potential, only 4.8% of learning disabled adults in England are in paid work in contrast with the overall 80% employment rate of the working age population. The time has come for a shift in mindset—one that values the contribution of disabled young people and recognises the economic and social benefits of creating an inclusive
workforce.
This could not be more timely as the government pursues its Get Britain Working agenda, as there are 1.6 million people in the UK with a learning disability who could benefit from a supported internship.
Supported internships offer a solution. These structured, work-based learning programmes provide young people with learning disabilities the opportunity to gain real-world experience, develop essential skills, and transition into sustainable employment. Backed by expert job coaching and employer partnerships, supported internships empower interns while giving businesses access to an often-overlooked talent pool.
The impact of supported internships is clear. Schemes such as DFN Project SEARCH have demonstrated that, when given the right support, up to 70% of young people completing these programmes move into paid employment. These results starkly contrast with the employment outcomes for those who do not have access to such programmes.
However, despite their success, supported internships remain underutilised.
One of the biggest challenges is no longer employer engagement. Increasingly, businesses across the UK—ranging from Asda to Goldman Sachs—are recognising the benefits of supported internships and are actively offering these life-changing opportunities. The real challenge now lies in securing sustained government support and adequate funding to ensure these programmes remain viable and accessible to all eligible young people.
Local authorities and educational institutions also have a key role to play. While supported internships are designed for young people aged 16-24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), many eligible students are not made aware of these opportunities. Careers advisors, schools, and colleges must do more to signpost supported internships as a viable pathway. Funding must be increased, awareness needs to grow among employers, and policies should be strengthened to make supported internships a mainstream option rather than an exception.
The economic case for expanding supported internships is undeniable. The cost of long-term unemployment for disabled individuals is high, both in terms of government support and lost productivity. By enabling more young people to gain employment, we reduce reliance on benefits, increase tax contributions, and foster economic independence. According to research, every young person with a learning disability who gains employment saves the government up to £1 million over their lifetime in social care costs and welfare support.
Yet, beyond economics, there is a moral imperative. Every person deserves the chance to fulfil their potential, contribute to society, and lead an independent life. Work provides not just financial stability but also a sense of purpose, belonging, and self-worth. By failing to provide equal access to employment, we deny disabled young people these fundamental rights.
The government has made some positive strides, including a commitment to increasing supported internships as part of the Local Supported Employment Initiative. However, more concrete action is needed. This includes:
● Increased investment in supported internship programmes, ensuring they are available in every local authority across the UK.
● Stronger employer engagement strategies, including incentives for businesses that take part in inclusive hiring initiatives.
● Greater awareness campaigns targeting schools, parents, and young people, ensuring that all those eligible are aware of supported internship opportunities.
● Better transition support post-internship, ensuring that successful interns are not left without further employment pathways.
Creating an inclusive workforce benefits everyone. Employers gain access to diverse talent, businesses experience increased innovation and productivity, and society as a whole becomes more equitable. Programmes like DFN Project SEARCH have already proven that change is possible. Now, it is time for policymakers, businesses, and educators to work together and ensure supported internships become the norm, not the exception.
If we are serious about breaking the cycle of unemployment for disabled young people, we must act now. Supported internships are not just a stepping stone to employment—they are a springboard to more inclusive, diverse, and equal society. The case for their expansion is clear, and the time for action is now.
Unlocking Potential: The Case for Expanding Supported Internships in the UK
