Aspirations is a specialist supported internship provider based in Doncaster, dedicated to transforming employment opportunities for young people with learning difficulties and/or autism. In its first operational year (2025–2026), Aspirations has delivered outcomes that significantly exceed national benchmarks and demonstrate what is possible when personalised support, high expectations, and inclusive employer partnerships come together.
In a sector where only 4.8% of people with learning difficulties and/or autism are in paid employment, and where the national average for supported internship paid outcomes sits between 65–70%, Aspirations achieved an exceptional 100% paid employment outcome for its learners. This milestone reflects not only the quality of its programme but also its unwavering belief that every young person deserves meaningful, sustainable employment.
Aspirations’ impact extends beyond employment statistics. Three interns who were previously NEET—struggling to engage with education, work, or training—have thrived through personalised support, structured target‑setting, and consistent encouragement. They are now positively engaged in both their professional roles and their personal lives, demonstrating the life‑changing effect of a truly inclusive approach.
One intern has been recognised, receiving an award as the Top Associate out of 2,500 associates, highlighting the calibre of talent that emerges when individuals are supported to succeed. Through vocational profiling and detailed job analysis, Aspirations ensures each intern is matched to a workplace where they can excel, contributing to both their personal growth and employer success.
Aspirations’ work has gained significant public attention. The programme was featured on ITV News, where an intern shared the profound impact the internship has had on his life and his family. A local MP has visited the programme, taking Aspirations’ questions on inclusive employment to Parliament, amplifying the conversation at a national level. Aspirations has also contributed to a Google research programme, further demonstrating its role as an innovative and influential voice in inclusive employment.
Employer partnerships have grown rapidly—from an initial collaboration with Amazon to new and expanding relationships with GXO, DSAT, and Asda. Aspirations supports these organisations to build more inclusive workforces by offering high‑quality placements and providing free diversity training to employees, ensuring inclusion becomes embedded across workplace cultures.
Looking ahead to September 2026, Aspirations will offer 46 supported internship places for SEND young people, significantly expanding opportunities across Doncaster. This growth reflects both the demand for high‑quality inclusive employment pathways and Aspirations’ commitment to helping local businesses become truly representative of the communities they serve.
Aspirations’ first year has set a new standard for what inclusive employment can achieve. Through innovation, partnership, and an unshakeable belief in the potential of every young person, Aspirations is reshaping futures, strengthening communities, and leading the way in inclusive workforce development.
