Learning disability internship praised

Interns with learning disabilities have been praised by colleagues at a Trentham logistics centre and by Staffordshire County Council.

Ben Matthews, 21, and Zain Abbas, 19, have worked at the site since autumn 2023 through the Mencap internship programme.

Fewer than 5% of people with learning disabilities are in work, according to the UK charity.

Mr Matthews, who was denied jobs at other companies before becoming an intern dispatcher, said: “With a learning disability, it isn’t easy, but I’ve managed to find something and I’m happy.”

The supported internships programme, co-ordinated by the county council, is a work-based study programme for 16 to 24 year olds.

Learners spend time with an education provider and in the workplace, supported by a job coach.

Russ Guest from Screwfix acts as a buddy to the new starters and has given glowing reports about "brilliant" Mr Matthews and Mr Abbas.

"They've gone from being really quiet in the background to being right up there - having confidence that you wouldn't believe."

Colleague and buddy Bev Parry believes the whole staff are more inclusive and understanding since the arrival of the interns.

"Having people with needs onsite, it's brought it to the forefront in people's minds. It's brought out the best in a lot of people."

Having trained the duo, Michelle Edwards is convinced this programme can work at any workplace.

"You just break it down for them. They learn in the same way, it might just take them a little bit longer."

"You've got to put the time and effort in to get there first. If you do that, they'll bring ultimate value to your company."