What We Do
DFN Project SEARCH is a national charity dedicated to transforming employment opportunities for young people with a learning disability, or autism spectrum condition, or both. Working in partnership with over 200 organisations across the UK, we bring together local education providers, local authorities, and supported employment partners to create meaningful career pathways.
Backed by data and driven by people, we have already supported over 2,000 young people, with an average of 63% securing permanent, paid roles.
Our ambition is simple: to create a more inclusive workforce where talent is recognised, opportunities are accessible, and aspirations become achievements.
Our Model
The DFN Project SEARCH model provides a structured supported internship programme designed to equip young adults with disabilities with the skills, confidence, and experience needed for long-term employment.
Participants, aged 16-24 with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) or equivalent, remain enrolled at their school or college but are based full-time within a host business. Throughout the programme, they receive up to 800 hours of structured on-the-job learning, supported by teachers, job coaches, managers, and mentors. To help them develop a broad range of skills, they complete three 10-week rotations in different roles within the host business. By working with prestigious employer partners across multiple sectors, DFN Project SEARCH provides young people with real-world experience and the opportunity to develop valuable skills.
Internships Work
We are proud to be part of Internships Work, a Department for Education backed commission which aims to double the number of supported internships in England by Spring 2025.
Working alongside our partners at the National Development Team for Inclusion, the British Association of Supported Employment, our role at DFN Project SEARCH is to lead on employment engagement, providing support and training to Local Authorities and creating over 800 Employer Ambassadors.
We encourage all employers Employer Ambassador Training. Simply follow this video to see how to become an Employer Ambassador today.
Funding Partnerships
Fundraising is vital to DFN Project SEARCH, accounting for around three-quarters of our total income. It provides essential funding to expand our programmes across the UK and supports key initiatives such as the Youth Advisory Group, alumni network, and engagement with parents and carers.
We would like to thank all of our funders and broader supporters, including the DFN Charitable Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, The Henry Smith Charity, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, The Robertson Trust, Youth Futures Foundation, Social Business Trust, and Pears Foundation.
