Evenbreak-inclusive employer, Capita, share their story of creating a supported internship for young neurodivergent people in Mansfield.
Joseph McGeown, Operations Director of Capita Intelligent Communications, explains how he created the life-changing programme: “Mansfield has a high number of young people that are neurodiverse or disabled. When they leave education, this group really struggles to get into work, often not even getting a job interview. And without secure employment, these young people will face a blighted future.
So, I decided to establish a supported internship scheme here at Mansfield that would offer employment opportunities – and a brighter future – to our local young people.”
Joseph worked with the Capita senior management team, their manager, colleagues and HR business partner to create the internship.
He said: “The project was a real test of perseverance and determination, and it was my colleagues’ trust that encouraged me to keep going.
Over a year, and with a few setbacks along the way, we underwent training and also sought out a partnering organisation that would share our values. Finally, we discovered Vision West Nottinghamshire College, which was a perfect match. Finally, we were ready to welcome our new interns.”
The first intake of interns joined the pilot programme and soon became a valuable part of the team at Capita.
“I was so proud to see them grow.” Said Joseph.
Some have already been offered permanent jobs at Capita, and a new cohort of interns will join us later this year.
The programme received wide-ranging support from across the business, and many existing colleagues even volunteered to mentor the new interns.
Joseph said: “These mentorships showed me that these diversity initiatives benefit all of us at Capita, as well as our local communities.
From the beginning, my colleagues understood that we had it in our power to make a life-changing difference to our new young colleagues, and it was their trust and support that encouraged me to pursue this vision. Today, I know that Mansfield is a source of pride and a success story for many of us, in Capita and beyond.”
Thanks for sharing your story Joseph.
Happy #NeurodiversityCelebrationWeek all.
