Westminster Labour Councillors are proud to back the Council’s Supported Internship Programme, which gives young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) the opportunity to gain vital skills, experience, and confidence on the path to paid work.
The scheme is run in partnership with City of Westminster College. Each year, around a dozen young people aged 16–24 spend four days a week on work placements – supported by specialist job coaches – alongside classroom learning tailored to their needs.
Placements have been offered across the Council and with partners including the Metropolitan Police, Hilton Hotel, Tate Britain, and the Museum of Brands. Interns are matched to placements based on their skills and interests, while also being encouraged to try new experiences to broaden their horizons.
The results speak for themselves. All of this year’s interns said they would recommend the programme and gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. The majority described their placements as “brilliant,” and all felt either ready or nearly ready to enter work. Employers also reported increased confidence in supporting young people with learning disabilities, with 100% saying they would recommend the scheme to other organisations.
Crucially, the programme is helping young people into real jobs. This year, seven interns were judged “work ready.” Six have already been shortlisted for a total of fifteen interviews, and many are expected to secure offers in the coming weeks.
Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said:
“We want every young person in Westminster to have the chance to thrive, no matter what barriers they face. The Supported Internship programme is transforming lives by helping young people with SEND build the skills and confidence to step into paid work. That’s why I have strengthened the Council’s Supported Employment team, adding new posts focused on working with schools and employers.”
By investing in these programmes and building strong partnerships across the city, Labour in Westminster is determined to deliver on our Fairer Westminster commitment: breaking down barriers, reducing inequalities, and opening doors to opportunity for every resident.