EXMOOR National Park Authority is taking part in a new Exmoor supported internship programme for young people aged 16-24 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), vulnerabilities or experiencing disadvantage.

The programme will be delivered by education and training providers SS&L in partnership with Young Somerset, local employers and Somerset Council’s ‘Imagine the Possibilities’ initiative.

A spokesperson for the scheme said: “Supported Internships are designed for young people who want to work but may need some additional support.

“The programme combines real work experience with structured learning and personalised support. Supported internships are a great opportunity to improve the life chances of young people with SEND or other challenges by supporting them into sustained, paid employment, while meeting the needs of local employers.”

Philippa Hill, coordinator of the Exmoor Pioneers programme with ENPA, said: “We know that there are many young people in the Exmoor area who want to work but struggle to find opportunities that provide the support they need.

“Through this programme we can offer those young people a chance to develop skills and show the world what they can do.”

Julie Young from Somerset Council said, “We’re absolutely thrilled to be launching the Exmoor Supported Internship as one of the newest supported internship programmes offers within the Imagine the Possibilities initiative.

“This is a truly inspiring partnership between Somerset Council, SS&L, Young Somerset and organisations across Exmoor and West Somerset.

“Special thanks go to Exmoor National Park Authority for the role they have played in getting this off the ground.”

Philippa Hill added: “We expect to offer supported internships focusing on woodland creation and management, estate and historic environment management and administration. There could also be roles in farming, horticulture, customer services and hospitality.”

For more information, visit https://www.sslcourses.co.uk/school-leavers/supported-internships/, or call 0330 332 7997.