DFN Project SEARCH supports around 1500 young adults (aged 16 – 25) with a learning disability, who are autistic, or both every year to make a positive transition from education to paid employment via a year long Supported Internship.  This provides them with the opportunity to build their confidence, experience, and careers and with that the chance to live more independent, healthier and happier lives.

Currently fewer than 5% of adults with a learning disability in England are in paid employment, compared to around 80% of their peers. This is due to engrained stereotypes, lack of awareness, and lack of quality support, all of which can lead to social isolation, poor mental health, poverty, and significant health and welfare costs.

We work in partnership with the young adult’s school or college, local employers, the local authority where they live, and providers of specialist employment support to ensure the Supported Internship gives them the best outcome. Our evidence-based approach is unique. Through our partner membership portal, we analyse employment outcome data nine months after interns have graduated. The programme supports, on average, 57% into paid work. This approach enables us to assess our impact, share best practice and learnings across our partners and the wider sector. Our theory of change is to use our evidence and insight, partnership building, and influence to support systemic change for these young adults.

Through our advocacy and engagement programmes we also raise awareness of the benefit of Supported Internships and ensure that the voice of our beneficiaries is reflected throughout our work.