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:
-
5th May - 10:00 – 12:00
Taunton Charis Centre with Skill up somerset -
11th May - 10:00 – 12:00
Burham Waffle Café -
12th May – 10:00 – 12:00
Minehead Beach Café with skill up somerset -
14th May – 10:00 -12:00
Wiliton Library Killick Way -
18th May - 10:00 – 12:00
Bridgwater Victoria Park CC - with skill up somerset -
19th May - 11:00 – 12:00
Taunton Charis Centre -
20th May - 10:00 – 12:00
Wellington Kings Arms with skill up somerset -
21st May - 12:00 – 14:00
Highbridge - Purple Spoon Café -
26th May
Minehead Hub Beach Hotel – with HPC Hinkley point
*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
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.
