• Local MP Sir Stephen Timms visits pioneering supported internship programme helping young people into employment
East Ham’s Member of Parliament visited Newham University Hospital to learn more about the council’s supported internship programme.
During the visit, Sir Stephen Timms, spoke with four entrants to the scheme, which helps young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), transition into meaningful employment.
The initiative is part of Newham Council’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusive employment.
Since its launch, the council-supported project, has helped 56 residents into work placements, with 36 progressing into long-term paid employment and 11 into further education.
Sir Stephen heard from four young people who shared their personal journeys and told him of the support received from Our Newham Work, Newham College and Generate.
They also described how the internship has transformed their lives.
Abdul, who recently completed the 12-month programme, said: “I’m with the admin team and they kept me on. Honestly, it makes me feel great because I know my skills are needed.
“During my time here, I’ve played a key role in recovering £400,000 in income through clinical and data coding.
“I was able to get through a backlog of data which built on the work done by my colleague, who is also on the programme.”
His comments were echoed by another young person on the scheme.
Bilal said: “The programme lets me do a job that allows me to keep developing. Everyone has been good to me. I am able to build up my IT skills, learning new software and getting confident with Excel.”
Sir Stephen was impressed by the interns’ progress and the dedication of the team.
He said: “It was such a pleasure to meet the young people on the scheme and learn first-hand the valuable experience it’s given them, and especially to hear that these young people are moving into permanent jobs.”
Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, said: “Through the supported internship programme, we’re clearly seeing the impact of our investment in inclusive employment - creating real opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
“Initiatives like this are at the forefront of Opportunity Newham, they are not just opening doors - they’re building futures. I’m so proud of the difference we’re making through our local partnerships.”
Newham Council is committed to working closely with partners in the public sector, local businesses and education providers to ensure the continued success and growth of supported internships, empowering more young people with the confidence, skills and experience to achieve their potential.
For further information on our supported internship programme, visit Our Newham Work at 112-118 The Grove, E15 1NS or contact Mehak Malik, the Supported Employment Team Leader, at mehak.malik@newham.gov.uk or on 02033734975.
