Intern to Work

Society often expects marginalised groups to conform to the existing norms, and it is this expectation that hinders true inclusion. Young argues that social movements, like the disability movement, focus on the similarities between themselves and the majority, and that this demonstrates their right to equal citizenship, but ignoring difference can actually ‘perpetuate rather than undermine oppression’ (Young, 1989 p268).

Part of the project also researched on the concerning lack of transition planning for SEND young adults and this added to the growing body of research that indicates ‘young people with learning disability are at risk of social exclusion and difficult transition on leaving school and during subsequent transitions’ (Beattie, 1999, Cameron and Murphy 2002).

The project also focused on the challenges and opportunities presented to LJMU students who acted as mentors, with a further exploration on the nature of inclusion and how an LJMU/LCC collaboration will improve inclusion at LJMU and the wider Liverpool community.

An inclusive and socially just society should adjust to the needs of the marginalised, so all voices are heard, and diversity is celebrated. This was the aim of LJMU Intern to Work – Supported Internships.

Supported internships are tailored programmes developed in partnership with LJMU departments willing to host interns, local colleges in Liverpool, and the interns themselves.

These initiatives aim to assist young individuals aged 16 to 24 with additional needs by offering valuable work experience and the opportunity to visit LJMU’s campus, potentially inspiring them to consider higher education at the university. This programme uniquely combines education, practical work experience, job coaching, and mentorship from LJMU staff.

Interns will be present on campus two days a week from 10am to 4pm, including a lunch break. They will acquire transferable work skills and have the chance to apply these skills in practical work scenarios. Under the guidance of LJMU staff, interns will gain hands-on experience performing tasks, gradually transitioning to a more independent role where they will manage the assigned tasks themselves.

Departments keen to host an intern are encouraged to identify tasks and responsibilities within their teams that are suitable for individuals with a strong interest but limited initial experience. Interns will need guidance and support as they build confidence and develop their skills.

The Supported Internships Programme runs for two durations:

• 10 weeks (April to June)

• 6 months (October to March)

Interns are scheduled to work two days a week, from 10am to 4pm. They will receive assistance from a job coach provided by Liverpool City Council, who will support the interns in various ways.

This includes accompanying them on their commutes from their accommodation to the workplace and checking in during the early stages of their placements to ensure they are comfortable in the work environment. As the interns gain experience and become more independent, the level of support from the job coach will gradually decrease.

As the placement progresses, the aim is for interns to transition into more independent working, with the ability to manage their assigned tasks with minimal supervision. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to an inclusive workplace while supporting someone’s journey into meaningful employment.

Kindly reach out to the Diversity and Inclusion Team for inquiries regarding the programme or to express your interest in participating by emailing equality@ljmu.ac.uk.

Beattie Committee. (1999). Implementing inclusiveness: realising potential. (Scottish Executive Report). [Online]. Available at: Implementing inclusiveness realising potential (edition) | Open Library

Cameron, L. and Murphy, J. (2002). Enabling young people with a learning disability to make choices at a time of transition. British Journal of Learning Disabilities. Vol.30 (3) pp.105–112.

Young, I. M. (1989). Polity and Group Difference: A Critique of the Ideal of Universal Citizenship. Ethics. Vol.99 (2) pp.250–274. Available at: doi:10.1086/293065.

• LCC SEND strategy 
• The City of Liverpool Additional Learning Support