BUSINESS representatives have been invited to an afternoon tea event to find out how young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) can work for them.

The South West Regional Assessment Centre (SWRAC) in association with Linwood School is holding the event on Friday October 13 to launch its #sayYEStoSEN campaign.

Supported by Bournemouth council, Poole council, Job Centre Plus and the Skills Funding Agency, the event at Bournemouth’s Marsham Court Hotel from 2pm to 4.30pm aims to show local businesses how providing work experience opportunities to people with special educational needs can work for them and change the lives of young people.

Adrian Gunner, Principal at SWRAC, said: "We constantly meet many people who are extremely enthusiastic, willing and able, reliable and trustworthy who have great personalities and who have the skills to undertake many roles.

"They have the potential to make wonderful employees but often they need help gaining experience first. That’s what our afternoon tea is about – businesses will hear first-hand how easy it is to help and that they really do have the power to make a difference."

Karen Taylor from Linwood School added: "The campaign has already attracted considerable, positive national and local attention. Employers really do benefit from a motivated staff member, whilst making a real contribution to society."

Representatives from Job Centre Plus and the Skills Funding Agency will be on hand to answer any questions about help and support available to those businesses who go on to provide work experience and / or employment.

Register for the event by contacting laura@routepr.agency or SarahJenkins@swrac.ac.uk and to find out more go to supportedinternships.org.uk