Thank you for your interest in offering work and training programmes for people with learning disabilities.

We know that it can be daunting to know where to start when looking to take on a placement.

So we offer tailored support to help you and the learner make the most of their placements.

People with learning disabilities stay in jobs for longer, are reliable and offer a fresh perspective to your company. Read on to find out more about how you can benefit.

Download our employer guide and get in touch

How can we help your business to offer a placement?

We have an extensive employer benefits package:

  • An on-site appointment to offer practical advice on taking on a trainee
  • A booked phone call with our Head of Employability Chris, to answer any initial questions you might have
  • Structured training programmes and tailored support for your trainees
  • Peace of mind knowing that we have given work training to your trainees to help them thrive
  • Staff disability awareness training
  • Discounted mental health first aider training
  • Disability Confident Level 2 and 3 Support
  • Discounted Hire of Hanger Farm Arts Centre
  • Introduction to other Employers and Networking Opportunities

Interested in finding out more? Email enrolment@minsteadtrust.org.uk

The employability programmes you can be part of

  • Step Up For Work

    What is it?

    Step Up For Work is a combination of classroom learning and in-work mentoring.

    The programme begins with a training course, covering all key aspects of employment such as health and safety, personal conduct, policies and procedures.

    People on the programme will then work with the employability team to find the best six month work experience opportunity for them, within our employer network. During
    this six months, we offer bespoke support by our employability mentors, who will help with developing a living CV through observations and a diary system.

    After the six month work experience, people on the programme then work with their personal employability mentor to secure paid employment.

    Download our prospectus to find out more.

  • Supported apprenticeships

    What is it?

    Our supported apprenticeships take on a blended learning approach, with in-person and virtual learning.

    In this paid role our apprentices will learn a combination of customer service and functional skills in both English and Maths over a period of 12 to 18 months.

    Our partners at Smart Training will allocate work, and our employability team will be there to provide added value support, ensuring all our apprentices have a quality and
    supported experience.

    Work is documented on an E-Portfolio and then decisions are made with End Point Assessments.

    Download our prospectus to find out more.

  • Traineeships

    What is it?

    Our traineeships use a mixture of in-person and virtual learning, helping our trainees prepare for an apprenticeship.

    This six month course course will combine lessons in employability and functional skills in both English and Maths.

    Our partners at Smart Training will allocate work, while our employability team will be on hand to provide dedicated support every step of the way.

    Work is documented on an E-Portfolio and then decisions are made with End Point Assessments.

    Download our prospectus to find out more.

  • Supported work experience

    What is it?

    Our supported work experience programme will provide exciting and challenging opportunities to those who want to find out more about the world of work.

    People on the programme will have the choice to complete the programme with Minstead Trust or with one of our many business partners, helping them prepare for employment or an apprenticeship.

    This programme is an excellent choice for those looking to understand the work environment and choose a career path that suits them.

    Download our prospectus to find out more.

As a business you can have a huge impact on the life of someone with a learning disability. Someone like Rachel, who has progressed through our training programmes to become a committed and capable café manager. 

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