EMA is thrilled to announce a new Supported Internship partnership with Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, as part of our ongoing commitment to offering diverse and meaningful career pathways for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s largest employer, and Dorset County Hospital (DCH) is the main provider of acute hospital services to a population of around 300,000 across Weymouth and Portland, west and north Dorset, and Purbeck. They also deliver renal services for patients across Dorset and South Somerset. With a workforce of over 3,500, DCH is a pillar of the county, and staff work in a range of settings – from the main hospital in Dorchester to GP surgeries, schools, residential homes, people’s own homes, and community hospitals. Through this partnership, EMA and DCH will provide valuable workplace opportunities where young people can build on their existing strengths, develop new skills, and explore potential career paths – all while being supported to prepare for life beyond education.
“As an anchor organisation, Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is deeply committed to increasing local employment and training opportunities for young people in our community. We are dedicated to working with education providers to ensure students are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the NHS workforce. Our partnership with EMA will enable us to offer meaningful workplace experiences that are invaluable to students’ future careers.” — Tom Gordon, Widening Participation Lead, Dorset County Hospital
Each Supported Internship includes a dedicated job coach who works closely with the young person to provide tailored training, build confidence, and help them find a role that suits their goals and aspirations.
“This is another hugely positive step in our mission to provide the best possible opportunities and outcomes for our students – now and in the future. Partnering with such an established employer central to our local community, and being able to tap into their expertise, facilities, and support is a fantastic opportunity. Their values around nurturing individuals and supporting them into work align perfectly with our own, and we’re really looking forward to getting started.” — James Dunham, Head of Education, EMA
Further details about internship placements at Dorset County Hospital will be shared soon. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to register your interest and take the next step in finding your future.
Right to left: James Dunham, EMA Head of Education. Tom Gordon Widening Participation Lead, Dorset County Hospital. Shannon Ford, EMA Careers Lead.
