Asda Expands Internship Program for Young People with Additional Needs, Doubling Participation

What's Happening?

Asda has announced the expansion of its supported internship program aimed at providing employment opportunities for young people with learning disabilities or difficulties. The supermarket chain has doubled the number of interns and participating stores in this year's program, coinciding with National Inclusion Week from September 15 to 21. A total of 119 students are expected to start placements across 22 Asda stores nationwide. The program offers year-long placements that combine real-world experience with tailored education, delivered in partnership with DFN Project Search and Wilberforce College. This initiative addresses the employment gap faced by young people with special educational needs, as only a small percentage secure paid employment after education compared to their peers.

Why It's Important?

The expansion of Asda's internship program is significant as it addresses the employment disparity faced by young people with learning disabilities. By providing tailored education and real-world experience, the program aims to increase the employability of these individuals, who traditionally have lower employment rates compared to their peers. This initiative not only benefits the interns by enhancing their job prospects but also contributes to a more inclusive workforce. Asda's commitment to this cause reflects a broader societal push towards inclusivity and equal employment opportunities, potentially influencing other companies to adopt similar programs.

What's Next?

Asda plans to continue working with local colleges to provide students with a comprehensive study course based at nearby stores, along with daily work-based experiential learning and a specific employability curriculum. The success of the program, with 46% of last year's interns securing jobs, suggests that Asda may further expand the initiative in the future. Additionally, Asda's recent launch of a training scheme for optometrists and Aldi's plans to hire new apprentices indicate a growing trend among supermarkets to invest in staff development and inclusive employment practices.

Beyond the Headlines

The expansion of Asda's internship program highlights the ethical dimension of corporate responsibility in promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. By addressing the employment gap for young people with learning disabilities, Asda is setting a precedent for other businesses to follow. This initiative may lead to long-term cultural shifts in how companies approach hiring and training, fostering a more inclusive environment that values diverse abilities and perspectives.