Internships Plus

Internships Plus is a specially supported work placement for Hampshire's care leavers who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

The council already has a rich and multifaceted approach to supporting young people through the work of its Children’s Services Department. This initiative is designed to complement the Council’s existing programmes and is offered as a key component of the Council’s ability as a major employer in Hampshire to bring about positive employment outcomes locally.

Evidence shows that young people leaving care tend to be more disadvantaged when trying to find employment due to; low skills, poor education, health issues and little knowledge of employability skills and the labour market.

Children in local authority care are much more likely than their peers to be NEET. At age 19, 33% of care leavers are NEET compared to 15% of the general population, there is also evidence that many care leavers enter and stay in low skilled work or are dependent on benefits.

This scheme was created in partnership with the University of Winchester. Since the pilot in July 2011, 3 cohorts of Interns have been employed by Hampshire County Council.

The scheme offers a 12 month paid work placement during which time the Intern is an employee of Hampshire County Council working in a supernumerary role with very significant pastoral support available to them and to the managers who host their placement. All interns will be given the opportunity to work towards a relevant qualification in a subject suitable to their academic history and role.

The Internship includes a 3 day preparatory programme prior to the work placement, facilitated by Hampshire Learning Centre, in partnership with the Lifelong Learning team at Winchester University.

Successful completion of Internships Plus helps participants gain confidence and life skills, increasing their ability to join the job market or move on to further education. Interns gain valuable and substantial workplace experience and skills, build their work ‘network’ and have access to role models, as well as the kudos of a university name and the role of ‘Intern’ on their CV’s.

We have received overwhelming support from managers within all departments of the County Council and would like to thank everyone for their time, dedication and enthusiasm.

For more information on Internships Plus or to find out how to apply, please visit the Children in Care website.