This practice guide outlines Westmorland and Furness Council’s strategic approach to expanding Supported Internships (SIs) as a core element of its Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) offer for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Recognising that many young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) were not employment-ready post-education, the council leveraged Department for Education funding to build capacity, engage employers, and promote SIs across the region. Through collaboration with colleges, employers, and national partners like NDTi and Project Search, the council developed a comprehensive action plan to raise awareness, improve service coordination, and enhance outcomes. The result has been a significant increase in SI uptake, with 90% of participants progressing into employment and new pathways emerging for younger learners
