Bedford Businesses Invited to Inclusive Employment Event for young Adults with SEND

bedford, UK—Local businesses are invited to an informative event focused on fostering inclusive employment opportunities for young adults with special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The event, hosted by bedford Borough Council, will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kings House, ampthill road, Bedford, and includes a complimentary networking lunch from 12 p.m.to 1 p.m.

Promoting Inclusive Practices and the Supported Internship Program

The primary aim of the event is to elevate awareness of inclusive employment practices and promote the Council’s Supported Internship Programme. This initiative is a collaborative effort with Bedford College, DFN Project Search, and Mencap.The program is designed to empower young individuals aged 17–25 with SEND by helping them cultivate essential skills, explore diverse career paths, and secure meaningful employment.

Networking and Learning Opportunities

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Connect and engage with employers currently participating in the Supported Internship Programme.
• Meet and learn from current interns sharing their experiences.
• Network with local businesses and organizations committed to inclusive employment.
• Gain valuable insights into how Access to Work funding can support both employers and employees.

The event will also facilitate open discussions, allowing attendees to ask questions, provide feedback, and enjoy complimentary refreshments and lunch.

The Council’s Commitment to Inclusivity

Councillor Jane walker, Portfolio Holder for Valuing Families: Children’s Services at Bedford Borough Council, emphasized the importance of inclusive employment, stating, “We are committed to creating a borough where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Inclusive employment is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense.”

walker further encourages businesses to participate: “By tapping into the talents of young people with SEND, businesses can build stronger, more innovative, and more representative teams. I urge all local employers to attend this event and discover the benefits of supporting inclusive employment.”

How Businesses Can Contribute

Local businesses are crucial in supporting the Supported Internship Programme. opportunities include offering internship placements, providing guidance on job applications, and sharing expertise in interviewing skills. These contributions enhance the skills and confidence of young people with SEND,and offer meaningful advantages to participating employers.

Benefits for Employers

Employing interns through the Supported Internship Programme can lead to:

• An increased pool of high-quality job applicants.
• A more reliable and diverse workforce that mirrors the community.
• The addition of new skills and perspectives to the business.
• Reduced recruitment costs through potential hiring of interns upon program completion.
• Recognition as an equality, diversity, and inclusion-focused employer, enhancing corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals.

Access to Work Funding: A Key Resource

The Access to Work program can provide crucial financial support to employers who hire individuals with disabilities. This funding can cover various costs, including workplace adaptations, assistive technology, and support worker services. According to the UK government’s website, Access to Work grants are tailored to the individual needs of the employee and employer, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can thrive in the workplace. Learn more about Access to Work.

Event Partnership and Funding

Bedford Borough Council is funding this event in collaboration with Bedford College, DFN project Search, and Mencap, highlighting a strong community commitment to inclusive employment.

Register Your Interest

Local businesses interested in attending this impactful event are encouraged to register by emailing [email protected].

Learn More

Discover additional resources and details about the Bedford Borough Council SEND team and the support available for local children, young people, and their families at www.bedford.gov.uk/SEND.

Conclusion: Invest in the Future

The upcoming inclusive employment event in Bedford presents a valuable opportunity for local businesses to learn about the benefits of hiring young adults with SEND. By participating, businesses can tap into a talented and often overlooked workforce, enhance their corporate social responsibility, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable community. take the first step: register today and unlock the potential of inclusive employment.

Unlocking Potential: An interview on Inclusive Employment for young Adults with SEND

Archyde News recently sat down with Sarah Jenkins, HR Director at GreenTech Solutions, a Bedford-based company known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, to discuss the upcoming Inclusive Employment Event and the benefits of hiring young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The Importance of Inclusive Employment: A Conversation with Sarah Jenkins

Archyde: Sarah, thanks for joining us. GreenTech Solutions has a strong reputation for its inclusive hiring practices. What motivated you to focus on inclusive employment, particularly for young adults with SEND?

Sarah Jenkins: Thank you for having me. At GreenTech Solutions,we believe that a diverse workforce is a strong workforce. We recognize the unique skills and perspectives that individuals with SEND bring to the table. It’s not just about corporate social obligation; it’s about tapping into a talent pool that’s frequently enough overlooked.

The Supported Internship Program: A Pathway to Meaningful Employment

Archyde: The Bedford Borough Council is hosting an event to promote inclusive employment and the Supported Internship Programme. How crucial are thes initiatives in creating opportunities for young adults with SEND?

Sarah Jenkins: These initiatives are absolutely vital.The Supported Internship Programme, in particular, provides a structured framework for young peopel to gain essential skills and experience. it’s a collaborative effort involving Bedford collage, DFN Project Search, and Mencap, which gives these interns complete support throughout their journey. We’ve seen firsthand how these programs build confidence and open doors to meaningful employment.

Access to Work Funding: Overcoming Barriers to Employment

Archyde: Many businesses might be hesitant due to perceived challenges. Can you speak about the support available, particularly “Access to Work” funding, and how it can ease the process of inclusive hiring?

Sarah Jenkins: Absolutely. Access to Work is a game-changer. It provides financial assistance to cover workplace adaptations, assistive technology, and support worker services. This funding is tailored to the individual needs of both the employee and the employer. It removes many of the financial barriers that businesses might worry about, making inclusive hiring more accessible and lasting.

Benefits for Employers: More Than Just CSR

Archyde: what are the tangible benefits for employers who participate in inclusive employment programmes like the Supported Internship Programme?

Sarah Jenkins: The benefits are significant. We’ve seen an increase in the quality of our job applicants, a more diverse and reliable workforce, and fresh perspectives that have boosted innovation. There are also reduced recruitment costs as frequently enough, interns prove to be excellent hires after completing the programme. Plus, it strengthens our reputation as an employer committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, which resonates with both our employees and customers.

A Thought-Provoking question

Archyde: Sarah, what is one piece of advice you’d give to a business owner who is considering attending the Inclusive Employment Event in Bedford?

Sarah Jenkins: Attend with an open mind and be prepared to be inspired. See this not as a charitable act,but as a strategic business decision. Come ready to learn and ask lots of questions! And, for our readers: What are *your* biggest concerns about inclusive hiring and what information would help you overcome those concerns? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Archyde: Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your insights. To our readers, remember the Inclusive Employment Event is on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at kings House in Bedford. You can register your interest by emailing [email protected]. Together, we can unlock the potential of young adults with SEND and build a more inclusive Bedford.