Amazon has revealed its intention to increase the number of young individuals with learning disabilities participating in supported internships by fourfold. Despite 86% of individuals with learning disabilities expressing a desire for paid employment, only 5% are currently employed, facing challenges in the job application process and lack of necessary workplace support.
In 2021, Amazon initiated a supported internship program for individuals aged 16 to 24 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including autism. Partnering with the charity DFN Project SEARCH, Amazon has assisted close to 300 young people across 25 UK sites, with over 80 securing permanent positions at Amazon.
Participants undergo structured placements at Amazon fulfillment centers, blending classroom education with hands-on experience. Each individual is assigned a dedicated job coach to offer personalized guidance, fostering practical skills, confidence, and independence.
Amazon’s expansion plans aim to assist over one thousand young people with learning disabilities and autism in securing employment by 2030. The success story of Rhys, who transitioned from a supported internship to a permanent role at Amazon’s Swansea fulfillment center, exemplifies the positive impact of the program.
John Boumphrey, Amazon’s UK chief, emphasized the importance of addressing the high unemployment rates among individuals with learning disabilities, highlighting the necessity for employer commitment and innovative solutions. The move to expand the internship program aligns with Amazon’s commitment to creating meaningful pathways to employment for individuals with disabilities.
Sir Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Social Security and Disability, praised Amazon’s initiative to increase supported internships for young people with learning disabilities and autism, recognizing it as a crucial step in providing inclusive opportunities for career development. He underscored the government’s dedication to enhancing youth employment prospects through significant reforms and substantial investment.
In conclusion, Amazon’s efforts to support individuals with learning disabilities and autism in gaining meaningful employment reflect a proactive approach to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the workforce.
