Stockport Council is working alongside Pure College (a special education college for students aged 16-25), as well as a number of Manchester businesses, to deliver a new work experience programme for residents with SEND. 

The Pure supported internships scheme aims to give residents with SEND the opportunity to gain work experience in a supported environment. 

The council says: "Pure supported internships will allow the council to create more opportunities, in addition to the already strong history the local authority has of offering successful placements, some of which have developed into 15-20 year careers for council colleagues."

Only 5.1% of adults aged 18-64 with a learning disability gain permanent paid employment in the UK, compared to 80% of their peers. 

Upon publishing employment figures for disabled people at the beginning of this year, however, the UK Government said: "The general trend in disability employment has been positive. There has been strong growth in the number and rate of disabled people in employment and a narrowing of the gap between the rate of disabled and non-disabled people in employment."

The council emphasises, however, that there is still a long way to go. 

This intern programme has already been well received by businesses who have taken part thus far. 

Barry, General Manager at The Alchemist bar and restaurant, said of his supported intern: "Tom is an absolute delight to work with. Always comes in, on time, with a smile on his face and cracks on with his tasks for the day. 

"All whilst lifting the spirits of the entire bar team. He is now the longest serving member of our bar team & is a real asset to his department. Tom never shies away from getting involved."

Councillor Jilly Julian, cabinet member for finance and resources at Stockport Council, commented: "It was fantastic to see so many local businesses attend the launch event for our Pure supported internships programme. Working together, we can ensure that all of our residents are given the opportunity to shine. 

"At the council, we will be leading by example and working closely with Pure College to take on a number of supported interns across our departments. We can offer hands-on work experience in a variety of different areas, working alongside our friendly team of colleagues."

If you are a Stockport business who would like to find out more about the Pure supported internship scheme, please email [email protected].

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