ABILITY,
NOT
BARRIERS
TOUR

Heather Rybaruk:
Best-Selling Author & Career Strategist

With over two decades of expertise, best-selling author Heather Rybaruk has empowered more than 600 individuals to secure meaningful employment and advance their careers. Heather’s mission is clear: to support 1,000 people in finding their path by 2026.

This summer, Heather is proud to support SS&L, working with young adults aged 16–24 to unlock their talent and potential. Her approach is all about looking at ability, not barriers across Somerset.

No matter your background, whether you have an EHCP, ECP, additional needs, didn’t get your GCSEs, or simply feel unsure about your next steps, Heather and the SS&L and the Community Employment Hub team are here to help.

Come and see us. Your potential is our priority.

Come and see us at our Drop-In Events

Heather and the team will be at the the following events:

  • Wednesday 16th July - 10:30 - 16:00
    Taunton - Taunton Youth Hub in Taunton Job Centre, TA1 3NY
    Come and see us on the SS&L Stand
  • Monday 21st July - 10:30 – 13:30
    Glastonbury - Glastonbury Community Employment Hub, Glastonbury Library, BA6 9JD
  • Thursday 24th July – 10:30 – 12:30
    Langport - Angel Café, TA10 9PQ
  • Friday 25th July – 13:00 - 15:00
    Frome - SS&L Centre, 15 Palmer Street, BA11 1DS Supported internship Event Frome – SS&L
  • Monday 28th July - 10:30 – 12:30
    Wells - Wells Community Employment Hub, Wells Library, BA5 2PU
  • Tuesday 5th August - 10:00 - 12:00
    Taunton - Taunton Community Employment Hub, CHARIS Centre, TA1 1RZ
  • Tuesday 5th August - 13:00 - 17:00
    Bridgwater – Angel Place with Bold and Brave, TA6 3TQ
  • Friday 7th August - 10:00 – 14:00
    Frome - Frome Community Employment Hub, Frome Library, BA11 1BE
  • Wednesday 6th August - 10:30 - 12:30
    Taunton - Taunton Youth Hub in Taunton Job Centre, TA1 3NY
    Discovery and Digital session

*Dates and venues may subject to change

Supported Internships

A supported internship is a structured, work-based study programme designed for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or need extra support to move into employment. The main goal is to help these individuals gain the skills and experience necessary for sustained, paid employment.

Key features of a supported internship:

Target group: Young people aged 16–24 with an EHCP who want to work but need additional support.

Work-based learning: Most of the intern’s time, typically around 70%, is spent in a real workplace, learning on the job.

Unpaid placement: The work placement is unpaid and lasts at least six months, often up to a year.

Job coach support: Interns receive tailored support from a qualified job coach, who helps them learn workplace skills and adapt to their roles.

Personalised study programme: Alongside the work placement, interns follow a personalised curriculum, which may include English, maths, and other qualifications relevant to their needs.

Pathway to employment: The aim is for the young person to transition into paid work, either with the placement employer or elsewhere

Other Programmes

Hired!

Amazon Best selling book available in 39,000 outlets.

  • Identifying career aspirations
  • Crafting a compelling and impactful CV
  • Enhancing application techniques for securing interviews
  • Building confidence during interviews
Heather, holding her book 'Hired!'
★★★★★

Such a useful book, utilising the author’s HR experience to assist parents or even grandparents in helping their youngsters navigate the mysteries of job application and get into gainful employment. I learned so much from reading it. I would also think the book could help anyone, already in employment, looking to move up the earnings league table.

Want to know more?

Get in touch to find out how a Supported Internship could work for you or your young person.

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Applicants must be aged 16-25 and have an EHCP for funding and eligibility.
Do you have an EHCP? (Education, Health & Care Plan)
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