Council celebrates supported internship graduates as programme creates pathways to employment
10 July 2026
Young people who have successfully completed a supported internship through a council-led scheme have been celebrated in a special graduation ceremony.
The supported internship scheme connects young people aged 16-25 who hold an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to an organisation, combining work placements with on-the-job training.
Designed to help young people with learning disabilities, autism and other neurodiverse conditions develop skills, confidence and independence, the programme also enables organisations to benefit from a diverse and talented workforce.
With the ultimate aim of helping participants secure paid employment, interns receive dedicated support from experienced job coaches throughout the 12-month programme, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the workplace.
Businesses which have benefitted from a supported intern through the scheme include Siemens, Crewe Hall, Everybody Health and Leisure, and Hickory’s Smokehouse.
This year's annual celebration at Macclesfield Town Hall brought together graduates, families, employers and council staff for an inspiring event celebrating the achievements of the young people who have completed the programme.
The ceremony provided an opportunity to recognise their hard work and success, while also highlighting the many benefits employers have experienced through welcoming supported interns into their workforce.
Graduates were presented with small gift and certificate and will continue to receive support as they take their next steps towards employment and independence.
Councillor Emma Gilman, cabinet member for education and SEND at Cheshire East Council, said: “This was a truly uplifting event and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our supported interns and the incredible progress they have made.
"The confidence, skills and independence these young people have developed throughout their internships has been inspiring to see. For many, the programme has opened doors to paid employment and provided a strong foundation for their future careers.
“We've heard from parents about the positive difference the scheme has made, giving young people with SEND a clear pathway into the world of work and helping them discover what they can achieve.
“I cannot emphasise enough how vital this first-hand experience is, and strongly urge families and employers alike to take a look into the opportunities available through the programme.”
Lauren Guthrie, Learning and Development Manager at Hickory’s Smokehouse, said: “What makes the Supported Internship Programme so special is that it’s about far more than learning a job, it’s about watching young people grow in confidence and independence.
“Seeing someone progress from needing support on day one to working independently and helping others is incredibly rewarding.
“Our team loves working alongside our interns, and the positive impact is felt across the business through higher team morale, great guest feedback, and a stronger sense of community. We’re proud to be part of their journey and to see them thrive.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for young people, the council is investing in the programme through the recruitment of additional job coaches, with interviews commencing soon for these positions. This will increase the amount of support available for interns, resulting in further opportunities for young people with an EHCP, and businesses looking to join the programme.
Employers can also access free online training modules on the Cheshire East Council website relating to supporting employees with additional needs, covering a range of modules to help employers feel informed and confident when recruiting individuals with disabilities or neurodiverse conditions.
More about the supported internships scheme can be found on the Cheshire East Council website, or a highlights video of the ceremony can be found on YouTube.