“I think employing young people with SEND definitely broadens your horizons,” said Lydia Thevarasa, who works for the NHS.

Lydia, who has autism and ADHD, is a staff engagement and training compliance administrator for West London NHS Trust.

We spoke to her as part of our series of interviews shining a spotlight on the employment experiences and successes of local young people with special educational needs and disability (SEND).

How it started

Lydia started thinking about employment when she was in year 13 at school and decided that she wanted to take up an apprenticeship or an internship. After speaking to her Connexions advisor and support team at Ealing Mencap, she decided to take a 1-year internship with Choices College.

She said: “The internship has definitely helped me improve my communication skills, particularly in terms of picking up on social cues. It also gave me a good idea of what to expect in a work environment.”

Ealing Council has supported 68 similar internships over the last 2 years by discussing the specific needs of the young person and employers, helping identify the necessary support for each individual circumstance. You can find out more about how you can get involved at the bottom of this article.

‘Loads of great opportunities’

Lydia went on to talk about the importance of these employment pathways.

“To get a job you need work experience, but if you don’t have a job, you can’t get work experience,” she added. “Opportunities like apprenticeships and internships can give that leg up for people that are struggling.

“My advice for young people with SEND is to weigh out all your options – there are loads of great opportunities and you’ll always have a support network to help you find them.

“I know my worth. I know that I am more than capable of taking charge when I need to.”

Hear it from hiring managers

Lydia’s manager, Sirina Kathiara, told us about her experience working with young people with SEND.

“Lydia has been a great addition and valued member of our team. It’s been fantastic to see how she’s grown and excelled over the last year or so,” she said.

“I encourage individuals with SEND to believe in yourself. What you can bring to the team is valuable and these opportunities will open so many doors for you. Be open and honest about what you need and the support that can really help you progress. Just know that your employer is there to help you through that process.

“My message to other employers is to embrace the opportunities and help break down misconceptions and barriers.”

Full support for employers

As part of the internship programme, both the young person and the employer are supported by job coaches.

Annette Lafitte, area manager for Choices College West London, said: “When young people with SEND are in employment, they feel like they belong somewhere and they’re actively doing something. Employment is an end goal for most SEND students or young people, so once they have that opportunity to thrive, they become a real asset to the company.

“My advice to young people with SEND is to take that leap into a supported internship programme. It is based on employability and allows you to showcase your skills. It’s not about qualifications but more about what you are capable of achieving.

“Employers should give it a go. These young people are as valuable as any other employee and the retention rates show that they are more likely to remain in employment.”

‘Make an impact’

Ealing Council leader, Councillor Peter Mason said: “Our ambition is to ensure everyone has access to a good, well-paid career that suits them, and creating these opportunities for young people is helping us achieve that. If your company could benefit from the hard work and dedication that young people with special educational needs and disability can offer, get in touch with us to find out more about the wide range of support we can offer you.”

Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes, said: “Lydia’s journey into employment is a great example of what can be achieved by young people with special educational needs and disability who are given the right support. Since 2023, we have supported 68 interns. These young people have a really valuable role to play in the workplace. If you’re thinking about employment, I encourage you to reach out to discuss the opportunities available.”

Get involved

Are you an employer who can offer a role to someone like Lydia? If you have been inspired by her story, we can help you recruit through an internship or apprenticeship pathway. Our process makes it as straightforward as possible to get your journey started, and support will be provided to both you and your new recruits throughout.

Contact us today by emailing buzuleacc@ealing.gov.uk

If you’re a young person with SEND looking to start your career, access information and guidance for young people or visit the West London Skills and Work Finder website for local training courses, careers events, and other available support to get into work.

Over the next few months, look out for more stories of other young people with SEND and their journeys through education and employment.