Liam’s journey shows power of inclusive employment

At a time when young people, particularly those who are neurodiverse, face increasing challenges in securing employment, employers have an important role to play in creating meaningful pathways into work. The Buckinghamshire Works Plan, published in January 2026, highlights a shortage of work experience placements and apprenticeship opportunities as key barriers that can prevent young people from successfully transitioning into employment. Liam's journey, which began with Talkback and led to a role at Fairhive Homes, is a powerful example of how the right support, opportunities, and experience can help young people overcome these barriers and build rewarding, long-term careers.  

Liam joined Fairhive Homes through a Supported Internship programme delivered in partnership with Talkback. Referred by Bucks College Group in November 2024, Liam was looking for an opportunity to gain workplace experience and develop his skills. Thanks to the long-standing and successful partnership between Fairhive and Talkback, Ian Rowland, Employability Coordinator at Talkback, knew Fairhive would be an excellent place for Liam to complete his 10-month placement.  

To help Liam settle into his new environment, Talkback provided regular support during the early stages of the internship, helping him build confidence and develop workplace skills. As his confidence grew, the placement evolved to reflect his strengths, interests and progression.  

Over the course of the placement, Liam became a valued member of Fairhive's IT team. He embraced every opportunity to learn, developed new technical skills and quickly established positive working relationships with colleagues. Feedback from team members was consistently positive, highlighting both his contribution and his willingness to take on new challenges.  

Rick Smith, Head of IT at Fairhive Homes, said: "One of the most rewarding parts of running the supported internship programme with Talkback is seeing people like Liam grow in confidence, skills and independence. Over the course of his placement, Liam became a valued member of the IT team, embraced every opportunity to learn and demonstrated just how much can be achieved when people are given the right support and opportunity."  

Recognising Liam's progress and potential, Rick proposed creating a paid position within the team. Following approval from senior management, Liam successfully applied for the role, attended an interview and was delighted to be offered a permanent position at Fairhive.  

Rick added: "The supported internship programme with Talkback has been a fantastic success, helping to break down barriers to employment and provide valuable workplace experience and skills. We're delighted that two interns have now secured roles at Fairhive, showing what can be achieved when people are given the right support and opportunity."  

Liam's appointment marks the second successful transition into employment thanks to the ongoing partnership between Talkback and Fairhive, demonstrating the positive impact these opportunities can have for both young people and employers.  

Ian Rowland at Talkback also added: “Liam starting a paid job with Fairhive clearly demonstrates what can happen when organisations give young, neurodivergent people an opportunity to show what they can do in the workplace. Talkback’s relationship with Fairhive is a fantastic template for how Supported Internships should work” 

For Fairhive, the continued success of the programme demonstrates the value of employers creating opportunities for young people to gain experience, skill and confidence in a real workplace. For young people, that opportunity can be transformative. For employers, it can provide access to talent, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives that individuals like Liam bring, while building a more diverse and inclusive workforce.