Bristol Youth: Amazon Internship Opens Doors

Transforming Futures: How Supported Internships at Amazon are Opening Doors for Young People with SEND

For young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), navigating the world of work can present significant hurdles. However, innovative programmes are emerging to bridge this gap, providing invaluable skills and experience. One such initiative is the supported internship programme at Amazon fulfilment centres across the UK, offering a structured pathway to employment for young people aged 16 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or equivalent.

These internships are designed to equip participants with the skills, experience, and confidence they need to secure paid, meaningful employment. The need for such programmes is underscored by the fact that, across England, less than 5% of adults with a learning disability and/or autism known to local authorities are currently in paid employment, despite a staggering 86% expressing a desire to work.

A Blend of Education and Experience

Amazon’s supported internships offer a unique blend of classroom education and practical work experience. Participants gain hands-on experience in various roles within a bustling Amazon fulfilment centre, where items are stored, packed, and shipped. This immersive environment provides a real-world context for learning and skill development.

The programme has a proven track record of success, with many graduates going on to secure permanent roles within Amazon. This year alone, over 80 young people with SEND are set to graduate from supported internships across 17 Amazon sites, a testament to the programme’s impact and reach.

Callum’s Story: A Journey of Growth and Confidence

Callum Gibbard, a young man from Bristol, is one such success story. Before joining the Amazon internship, Callum was studying maths and English at college but felt unfulfilled in full-time education. He yearned for a job and discovered the supported internship opportunities at the Amazon fulfilment centre in Bristol. This workplace-based learning opportunity allowed him to continue his education while gaining valuable hands-on experience.

“Leaving college was the best decision I could have made,” Callum reflects. He enjoyed working in various departments at Amazon, with a particular fondness for the “receive” department, where he unpacked boxes of items for storage. “It can be a complicated job sometimes, but I’ve started to get faster and more confident,” he says. “The tasks all come easily to me now, which has built my confidence. I’ve always wanted to get a job, and I’m so proud that doing the supported internship helped me get one at Amazon.”

Callum’s parents were initially surprised by his success. “My parents were shocked and surprised when I told them I’d got a full-time job. As soon as I told them they said ‘no way, you did not get the job!’. That made me really happy for myself.”

When asked what advice he would give to himself on his first day, Callum said: “Stay strong, positive and confident. Have all the courage you can and never give up. Amazon has changed my life, and I’m so thankful for everything the people here have done for me. I’ve worked hard and been dedicated, which has allowed me to make friends and get on with everyone. I’ve also been supported by everyone, from my job coach to the team at Amazon.”

Upon completing his internship, Callum was offered permanent employment at Amazon in Bristol, where he now works in the packing department. His achievements were celebrated at a graduation ceremony attended by his family and Amazon colleagues.

A Mother’s Perspective: Witnessing Remarkable Transformation

Callum’s mother, Naomi Driver-Gibbard, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in her son. “Callum had a very difficult secondary school and college experience. He got bullied for being different, saying the wrong things and he just didn’t seem to fit into any categories,” she explains.

The supported internship programme provided Callum with a new sense of purpose and direction. “From the moment Callum started, we could see a new sense of confidence emerging in him,” Naomi says. “He’s learned not only some very valuable job skills but also life skills. He’s grown in confidence, his communication has improved, and he also has some level of responsibility. These skills will be essential for helping him in the future and grow his own independence.”

Naomi is incredibly grateful for the support Callum has received. “He’s had such amazing support, patience and encouragement from all the staff,” she says. “It’s so lovely to see that Callum feels seen, heard and valued, and is thriving. I think this is the dream for any parent with a young adult with additional needs. We are extremely grateful to Amazon, DFN Project Search and all the staff. I would highly recommend this programme. We are extremely proud of Callum and effort he’s put into it.”

A Commitment to Inclusive Employment

The supported internship programme at Amazon was launched in 2021 with the aim of increasing the representation of young people with SEND in the workforce. The programme was expanded in 2023 through a partnership with the national charity DFN Project Search. Since its inception, over 160 young people have participated in the programme, making Amazon one of the UK’s largest providers of supported internships.

Kirsty Matthews, CEO of DFN Project Search, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives. “We are incredibly proud of Callum and all those completing their supported internships this year,” she says. “Each and every one of our interns graduating has shown that with the right support and opportunities, young people with a learning disability, who are autistic, or both, can thrive in the workplace. Our partnership with Amazon continues to open doors that might otherwise have been closed, proving that inclusive employment isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. Every success story like Callum’s shows what is possible when we invest in the potential of our young people.”

Amazon’s Investment in its Workforce

Amazon is committed to providing its employees with competitive pay and comprehensive benefits. The minimum starting pay for frontline operations employees ranges from £13.50 to £14.50 per hour, depending on location. Employees with 36 months of service earn between £13.75 and £14.75 per hour, depending on location. This translates to an annual starting salary of between £28,080 and £30,160 for full-time frontline employees across the country.

Since 2022, Amazon has invested £550 million in increased pay for operations employees across the UK, representing a 35% increase in the hourly rate. In addition, employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, subsidized meals, and an employee discount. Amazon also offers a company pension plan.

Furthermore, Amazon’s Career Choice programme covers up to 100% of tuition and fees for courses in high-demand fields, regardless of whether the participant pursues a career at Amazon.

Recognition as a Top Employer

Amazon has been recognised as a ‘Top Employer UK 2025’ by the Top Employer Institute for the second year in a row. This prestigious certification acknowledges Amazon’s commitment to the development and well-being of its employees. Amazon has also been certified as one of the Top Employers in Europe for a third consecutive year.

In 2025, Amazon ranked second on LinkedIn’s Top Companies list, which identifies the most sought-after large companies to work for and grow your career in the UK.

How to Apply

To apply for a supported internship programme with Amazon via DFN Project Search, contact info@dfnprojectsearch.org ahead of the company’s September intake.