Southampton hospitality worker Alfie Cole landed a paid role at Novotel after completing a supported internship through Hampshire Achieves, one of the county’s flagship programs for 16-to-24-year-olds with Education, Health and Care Plans. Cole is one of 129 young people who have secured jobs since the scheme launched in 2022, according to the latest council data.

The reverse job fairs flip the script: instead of employers pitching to candidates, interns take the lead. Hampshire Achieves staff describe the format as an “apprentice showcase,” where young people present portfolios, demonstrate tasks, and answer questions from hiring managers in speed-interview rounds. Employers including Novotel Southampton, Tesco Extra in Eastleigh, and Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council have already pledged participation.

Council leaders say the initiative is a direct response to a 38% rise in youth unemployment among people with SEND in the county over the past two years. Hampshire Achieves director Sarah Whitmore confirmed that 74% of interns who complete the 12-month program secure either full-time roles or apprenticeships within six months of finishing.

The first fair takes place on May 19 at the XPerience Centre in Fareham, followed by May 20 at Hope Church in Winchester and June 2 at Chute House in Basingstoke. Each event runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and is open to all Hampshire residents with an EHCP, their families, and local employers seeking talent. Whitmore emphasized that no prior work experience is required—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

1. Prepare a one-minute pitch — Interns are coached to highlight strengths, interests, and career goals.
2. Bring samples of work — Portfolios can include photos, certificates, or written reflections from placements.
3. Dress professionally — Business casual attire is recommended to mirror workplace expectations.

Employers attending the fairs are pre-screened for inclusive hiring practices. Hampshire Achieves provides guidance on workplace adjustments, ensuring managers understand how to support neurodivergent staff or those with physical disabilities. The council has allocated £180,000 this year to fund mentor stipends, travel costs for interns, and employer training sessions.

The introduction of reverse job fairs follows Hampshire’s broader push to integrate SEND talent into the local economy. In March, the council approved a £5 million fund to expand supported internship placements across 47 new host businesses, including supermarkets, care homes, and tech startups. Council leader Rob Humby stated that the goal is to double the number of interns placed annually by 2026.

Critics argue the model still relies heavily on voluntary employer participation, leaving gaps in rural areas where businesses are scarce. Whitmore acknowledged the challenge but highlighted partnerships with transport providers to ensure interns can reach placements. She added that the council is exploring a subsidized minibus service for participants outside major towns.

• 📊 47 new host businesses confirmed for 2025–2026 placements
• 🔍 Rural transport remains a barrier, with only 12% of interns coming from villages compared to 58% from cities
• ⚠️ Employers outside mainstream sectors, like agriculture, have been slower to engage

The next step for Hampshire Achieves is a pilot program launching in September, pairing interns with mentors in the creative industries—film, design, and digital media. Whitmore sees it as a chance to tap into Hampshire’s growing creative sector while diversifying career pathways for young people with SEND.