The event, organised by Buckinghamshire Skills Hub, was designed specifically for young people and career seekers with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those facing barriers to entering the workforce.

With studies showing that companies that are more inclusive and diverse tend to be more innovative and profitable, yet the employment rate for people with SEND being lower than the rest of the population, this was the perfect event to do something that marries these two issues together.

A fitting venue for a fantastic event

On June 13th, more than 40 employers took the opportunity to exhibit at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, a venue with an unparalleled track record of inclusion and diversity.

Students, jobseekers and career changers learnt all about the career paths into different industry sectors. For employers, this was their chance to inspire the next generation, create opportunities for those facing barriers to work, and spot future talent for their own business.

Those attending also had the opportunity to interact with organisations and next step providers (universities, colleges and apprenticeship programmes) and discover what it is like to work in key industries, what skills and qualifications they need to get their first job, and what steps they should take between now and applying for a job.

With inclusivity underpinning every element, the sensory-conscious show focused on providing a spacious and less crowded experience for attendees.

A picture tells a thousand words

See some of the pictures taken at the event, showing a fun, inspiring and engaging time for all involved.

Marina Jackson, Buckinghamshire Skills Hub, said: “We were delighted that the Skills Show was attended by businesses from a broad range of sectors. It was really inspiring to see the excitement of all of those involved.”

Marina added: “The event was the perfect opportunity for students, teachers, job seekers and job changers to meet potential employers, learn more about what is out there career-wise, and gather ideas on how to achieve their dreams. Our goal is to help every individual find what is right for them, whether that’s higher and further education, training, apprenticeships or employment.”

The NHS, Buckinghamshire Council, Buckinghamshire College Group, Align, Mission EmployAble and Talkback were just some of the organisations in attendance at the Skills Show.

Are you a Disability Confident employer?

In addition, Buckinghamshire Business First hosted a workshop on ‘Becoming a Disability Confident Employer’, designed to help businesses create a more inclusive workplace, something that benefits businesses as much as it does the people they hire. If you'd like to learn more about leading positive change in your organisation, visit the Disability Confident website.

Have you thought about providing a supported internship placement?

Supported internships offer young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) the chance to develop skills and achieve sustained employment. Learn all about them with our special Employer Guide to Supported Internships (PDF).

Promote work experience opportunities

We would like to bring your attention to the work experience area on the Bucks Skills Hub website. If you have any work experience opportunities you would like to promote, please fill out this quick form.

Want more information?

For information on any of the above, or for general skills and careers information, contact the Bucks Skills Hub team at [email protected] or 01494 927130.

You can also visit the Bucks Skills Hub website at www.BucksSkillsHub.org.

The Confident Futures Skills Show (formerly the SEND Skills Show) was supported by Skill Up Bucks, a programme designed to help SMEs in Buckinghamshire identify and nurture future talent by creating opportunities for people aged 17+ to meet and interact with employers. The programme is funded by the European Social Fund and the Department for Work and Pensions.