After facing countless job rejections, 19-year-old Emma from Grimsby was beginning to lose confidence in her search for work.
However, determined not to give up, she joined the DFN Supported Internship Programme in 2025 with a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.
Over three work placements, Emma gained valuable experience across a variety of settings, helping her discover her strengths, build her confidence and identify a career path that truly suited her.
On her first placement, Emma worked in the café at the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre before progressing to support museum and Ross Castle tours.
On rotation 2 in the Humberside Police Evidentiary Department Emma found a new interest and enthusiasm for office-based computer data work.
This coupled with the time in the Evidence Stores solidified Emma’s job searches to Administration Office based positions. She felt she had found her path.
In rotation 3 at Grimsby Crematorium Emma developed a great working relationship with staff and she thrived in every place they place she worked whether that be front of house, back of house, or in the office.
Emma adapted to every situation with professionalism and confidence, embracing every new learning opportunity and challenge she faced.
She did so well that they asked her to continue after the DFN Supported Internship Programme finished.
Now she has taken the next step in that journey, securing an 18-month Administration Apprenticeship at Grimsby Crematorium.
Emma said, “My internship gave me a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience and develop skills while working across both North East Lincolnshire Council and Humberside Police, contributing to the organisations and communities they serve.
“The support and encouragement I received helped build my confidence and prepare me for my apprenticeship in Business Administration at Grimsby Crematorium.
“The experience has given me a strong foundation for my future career.
“I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and look forward to continuing to learn, develop my skills, and grow through my apprenticeship.
“The experience has allowed me to meet and learn from a wide range of people, gain valuable insight into professional working environments, and develop skills that will support me throughout my career.
“I would encourage anyone considering a Supported Internship to take the opportunity, as it provides valuable experience, helps build confidence, and can open doors to future career opportunities.
“It has been a great stepping stone for me and has helped shape the path I am on today.”
Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council said: “The employment landscape can be challenging for young people to navigate.
“Supported Internships give young people a chance to gain practical experience and skills but equally important interpersonal skills like communication, assertiveness, and term working.
“These programmes give young people a diversity of opportunities to find where their strengths lie and what their preferences are.
“All interns are given induction process to ease them into the transition and are paired with a job coach who supports them throughout the year, gradually giving them more independence as they become more confident, and regular reviews to ensure they are happy and progressing.”
Supported Internships are for young people aged 18+ in full-time education with an Education Health and Care Plan.
To learn more about supported internships email Annie Cook Lead EHCP Coordinator for post-16 at [email protected].
Find out more about supported internships online at Preparing for Adulthood – NELC SEND Local Offer.
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