A supported internships programme that has been changing lives since 2017 is now making waves in Craven.

Right2Work, which pairs interns with businesses to offer valuable work experience at no extra cost to the employer, brought its initiative to the region in 2022.

A new programme has now been set up in the Craven area, with three interns looking for opportunities.

From September, they will be joined by a further ten interns.

Supported internships match interns aged 16 to 25, and who have an education, health and care plan (EHC), with employers, for whom they can work for up to a year.

There is no charge to the employer for Right2Work's placements, since costs will be covered by North Yorkshire Council.

Supported internship manager, Sally Pattison, said: "The work placements almost act as an extended interview, helping employers ensure they get the right person for the job.

"They’re flexible and can work from as little as half a day up to four days a week.

"Interns are accompanied by a job coach to provide support where needed.

"Our team based in Skipton are really looking forward to working with more Craven businesses as the programme progresses here."

One of the employers already engaged with the programme in Craven is Airedale Hospital, who have an intern currently working in the catering department.

Izzy Allsopp, of the Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: "As one of the biggest local employers, we’re socially responsible to help shape the opportunities available to under-represented people in our community."

Right2Work also offers support to employees who are already on a payroll but may benefit from the support of a job coach.

There is no cost to the employer, since funding comes from the government's Access to Work scheme.

Interested businesses and organisations should contact Simon Hewitson at simon.hewitson@right2work.org.uk or telephone 07483 102569.