Employment

Supported Internships can help young people aged 16-25 with an EHCP, to get a job. They are unpaid and last for a minimum of six months  They are a type of Study Programme where young people can 'learn on the job'. In Supported Internships most of the learning is done at work and some in college. This easy and Accessible Guide provides more information about supported internships.

A traineeship is a training course with work experience that gets you ready for work or for an apprenticeship. It can last up to 6 months. Its aim is to provide work preparation, English and maths training for those that need it and a work experience. A traineeship is for young people aged 16 – 24 who are unemployed, have little or no work experience, and do not have a Level 3 qualification.

Help with finding a traineeship is available at GOV.UK – Find a traineeship.

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study. They can take between 1 and 4 years to complete depending on their level. As an apprentice you will be paid for working at least 30 hours per week and will get paid holidays. You will be studying for a qualification either in your place of work or classroom based, for example 4 days per week in the workplace, and one day per week at college.

You can find out more about apprenticeships and search for opportunities on Gov.UK 

Disability Rights UK – Into Apprenticeships Guide is for disabled people, parents and key advisers about applying for apprenticeships in England. It contains a useful resources section listing further websites, publications and organisations which can help.

If you feel the need to develop your employability skills and self-confidence before you get a job, there are good opportunities to join a pre-employment or employability skills programme.

When you feel confident and work ready, there are organisations who can help you to look for a job, write a CV and make an application. Once you have a job, there are also organisations who can help you to get the right support from your employer.

You can find more information in our ‘Preparing for Employment’ (PDF, 71KB) and ‘Support in Employment' (PDF, 70KB) Young Person Toolkits.

Access to Work can help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.
you can apply for:

• a grant to help pay for practical support with your work
• support with managing your mental health at work
• money to pay for communication support at job interviews

16- 19 Team - Some useful resources for young people finding out about themselves and possible career options

Youth Employment UK - Home education courses to help young people explore skills and careers

Works for Us - Milton Keynes-based charity dedicated to providing free training, careers guidance and support for people in and around Milton Keynes

TRACK – supporting autistic people to access employment through training, support services and creating opportunities. To find out more email thomas@track.org.uk

Supported Employment MK - service for adults with Learning Disabilities and or Autism, enhancing and empowering people to achieve their potential and offer choice and inclusion

National Careers Service provides information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work opportunities. The service offers confidential and impartial advice, supported by qualified careers advisers. 

MK Neighbourhood Employment Programme - free employability support service designed to help Milton Keynes residents into work.

MK Job Show - Careers fair in Milton Keynes

MK Job Centre Plus - Disability Employment Advisers - If you have a health condition or a disability that affects your ability to work, you can get assistance and advice on returning to the workplace by speaking to a Work Coach.

Mind BLMK - Support into employment programme, for adults with mental health issues looking for employment

MK Local Offer - Information about your options including education, employment, training and other opportunities.