Taking the microphone in front of a packed room was not a ceremonial extra for Hartlepool’s supported interns and volunteers. It was one of the clearest signs of how far they had come.

Several of the young adults hosted a question-and-answer session at a graduation and awards event at the Centre for Living, speaking about their placements, achievements and plans. They were part of a group of almost 30 people with additional needs or autism who received certificates for completing supported internships or community volunteering.

A bridge into working life

Supported internships are structured work-based programmes for people aged 17 to 25 with additional needs or autism. They are designed to build the practical skills, experience and confidence needed for paid employment.

Six interns completed placements with Hartlepool Borough Council and five completed placements with Asda. A further 17 people were recognised for community volunteering, where regular activity can help participants learn new tasks, meet people and become more independent.

The ceremony also that a good placement depends on the people around the intern. Awards went to mentors working with the Asda and council programmes, as well as the volunteering scheme. Hartlepool Art Gallery was recognised for its contribution to intern development, while Surfside Restaurant and Kilmarnock Little Stars Nursery received an award for supporting volunteers. Gamers@Hart was given the Pathway to Employment Award.

Confidence on public display

Certificates are useful markers, but the question-and-answer session showed a less measurable change. Speaking to a large audience requires preparation, self-belief and the confidence to describe your own work. For participants who may previously have found employment settings difficult to access, taking charge of that part of the event was an achievement in itself.

Councillor Christine Wiley, chair of the council’s Adult Services and Committee, said the programmes could be life-changing because they helped people gain experience and independence. She also called on more Hartlepool employers to offer opportunities.

That invitation is important. An internship programme cannot grow on classroom work alone; it needs real workplaces, clear tasks and colleagues willing to adapt their support. The council, Asda and the community organisations involved have shown what that can look like.

Local businesses interested in taking part, and people who want to join a future programme, can contact the team at SI@hartlepool.gov.uk.

: Participant totals, awards and programme details were checked against Hartlepool Borough Council’s report of 11 August 2026. Image: Hartlepool Borough Council.