Gateshead Council set up GATES, a supported employment service for residents with disabilities. The service has secured paid employment for 48 service users over the last five years. In the last 18 months, the service has established an internship programme with IKEA, whereby people with disabilities undertake placements with IKEA on the premise that if they demonstrate proficiency within their work role, IKEA will find a permanent position for them. So far, 3 people have secured permanent work with IKEA.

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In 2016, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council set up the Supported Internship Programme in partnership with Knowsley Community College. 11 young Knowsley residents with learning difficulties who weren’t in employment started placements with local businesses providing them with skills and confidence. A second 11 interns started in 2017, and of the 22 interns, 15 have secured permanent paid employment, and the remaining 7 are pursuing volunteering and training opportunities. A further 10 young people were welcomed in September 2018.