Enhancing Successful Routes to Employment in Somerset
Earlier this month, the annual Somerset Supported Employment Conference took place at Taunton Rugby Club, celebrating the remarkable efforts in Somerset to create successful employment pathways for our most vulnerable young people.
Supported Employment empowers these young individuals to achieve employment, independence, and fulfilment. The collaboration of educators, employers, job coaches, friends, family, and colleagues are crucial in developing and supporting the outstanding Supported Employment opportunities available in Somerset.
The conference serves as a yearly gathering for the Supported Employment community to connect, share experiences, and support each other in delivering sustainable employment routes and developing new, exciting opportunities.
Representatives from employers offering Supported Internships across the region, including Kuehne+Nagel, Wincanton Logistics, and Somerset Larder, discussed how providing supported employment opportunities has prompted them to challenge the status quo, refine processes, and introduce new practices that have significantly benefited their organisations.
Julie Walker, Executive Director of Sen.se, remarked, “The spirit of true partnership was evident in every presentation, workshop, and conversation—a real celebration of what is possible when a community comes together.”
The day’s highlights were provided by supported interns, both past and present, who shared their experiences and celebrated their successes with the delegates. This included self-employed artist and illustrator Robin Meader, who illustrated the conference and shared his journey of navigating the world of work while living with a learning disability.
Julie Young, Careers and Pathways Adviser at Somerset Council, commented, “Partnership working was showcased throughout the Supported Employment Conference. Listening to the inspiring young people who presented on the day was proof that all the collaborative planning, work, and commitment between partners to date has been hugely worthwhile. We are now really excited to continue this journey and ensure that every young person can imagine the possibilities for their future.”
Encouraging and supporting employers to explore how they can offer these vital opportunities for young people to gain meaningful employment is a key part of our work at the Somerset Education Business Partnership.
For more information on how you can raise the aspirations of young people with SEND and introduce Supported Employment into your business, contact Imelda Leetch at imelda.leetch@somerset-ebp.co.uk.
To view the current Supported Internship vacancies available in Somerset currently, visit www.somerset-ebp.co.uk/imagine-the-possibilities.
Released On 25th Nov 2024