EmploYOU helps individuals build confidence and skills so they can progress into meaningful education, training, voluntary roles, or paid employment. Our support is for those 16+ with learning disabilities who want to build a more independent future in Dorset. We help people who are:
- Leaving day services or education
- Looking for work, volunteering, or training
- Unsure where to start or lacking confidence
- Wanting support to succeed and stay in work
Our team works to support individuals who meet the Care Act eligibility. This includes people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, those who are not in education, employment or training, and care leavers.
Previous Dorset client placements
- The Royal Mail
- RSPCA
- Dorset Council
- Dorset Air Ambulance
- Swanage Railway
- Co-op
- British Heart Foundation
- Carnival UK
- Wyvern Academy
- Southampton University
David’s journey
Read about how David got into work through dedication and hard work with our team.
How we help get you started
Our supported employment model is centred around intensive, person-centred support to help individuals transition into adulthood and move into meaningful opportunities in Dorset. And we work closely with individuals aged 16+ to support progression from day services and other provisions, helping them build structure and routine while recognising the transferable skills they already have.
Each individual is supported through a Vocational Profile, a Progression Plan, and a clear SMART Action Plan. Our plans are reviewed every 28 days to ensure progress is tracked, goals remain relevant, and support is adapted to meet changing needs.
Support is tailored to each person’s goals and timescales, whether that be further education, training, voluntary roles, or paid employment.
Practical employment support
Preparing for work
- CV development and job application support
- Interview preparation and tailored mock interviews
- “Better off” calculations to clearly show the financial benefits of employment
- Support engaging with Jobcentre Plus to reduce anxiety and build confidence
- Identifying training and courses aligned with career aspirations
In-work and employer support
- Proactive employer engagement to source and shape opportunities
- Job carving to match roles to an individual’s strengths
- In-work job coaching and workplace-based support
- Support with Access to Work applications
- Ongoing follow-up to ensure placements are sustained
Ongoing support
We continue to work alongside individuals after they enter employment, providing consistent, practical support to help them develop skills, confidence, and independence for up to six months. Our support extends beyond the workplace into education and wider lived experiences, enabling individuals to build resilience, find their voice, and develop lasting self-belief.
Referral routes
Referrals go through Dorset Council, who will help you every step of the way.
