DFN Project SEARCH is a supported internship based at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) for neurodiverse young people with an EHCP aged between 17-24.

Interns on the programme are enrolled with Phoenix School and Phoenix College and work in partnership with QMUL, Kaleidoscope Sabre Supported Employment Agency, Tower Hamlets Local Authority and DFN Project SEARCH. The supported internship is a 12-month programme which will enable young people to develop their employability skills and receive tailored support in securing fulltime, paid employment at the end of the year, in an industry of their choosing.

Interns on the programme take part in 3 x 3-month long work experience rotations in departments across QMUL including Admin, Catering, Retail and many more. They are supported by the onsite team which includes a tutor and 2 job coaches. With the tutor, they will study topics such as Money Management, CV Writing, Interview Skills and Applying for Jobs.

Project SEARCH QMUL has an employment success rate of over 80% and all young people who have secured employment have retained their job to date, thanks to our exceptional follow-on support from Employment Engagement Co-ordinator.