A Somerset Council programme that is transforming employment opportunities for young people with special educational needs and
disabilities (SEND) has won a prestigious national award.
Imagine the Possibilities was awarded silver in the Diversity and Inclusion category at the 2026 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards, recognising its innovative work helping young people with SEND move from education into paid employment.
The LGC Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious events in local government, celebrating councils and public sector organisations that are delivering outstanding services and making a real difference to the communities they serve.
The project has been delivered to support young people to explore their futures and build confidence in their next steps. It has been delivered in partnership with sen.se, the association of special schools, which has been instrumental in this work. Together, partners have worked to ensure the programme reflects the needs and aspirations of pupils across Somerset.
Breaking down barriers to employment
Across England, many young people with learning disabilities face significant barriers to employment despite having the skills and ambition to succeed. In a large and predominantly rural county such as Somerset, those challenges can be made even greater by distance, transport difficulties and limited local opportunities.
Imagine the Possibilities works closely with schools, families, employers and national partners to remove these barriers and create clear, supported pathways into work.
Through Supported Internships, the programme has grown from a single internship placement to 15 programmes across Somerset and now supports more than 100 young people each year to build confidence, independence and valuable workplace skills.
Independent research has shown the programme delivers benefits far beyond employment outcomes, creating significant social value through improved wellbeing, reduced reliance on public services and greater participation in the local economy.
For young people and their families, the programme raises aspirations, increases independence and creates opportunities to achieve fulfilling careers and brighter futures.
Voices behind the success
Councillor Heather Shearer, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “Being recognised at the LGC Awards is a tremendous achievement and a testament to the dedication and passion of everyone involved in the Imagine the Possibilities team.
“The programme is changing lives by helping young people with SEND develop the confidence, skills and experience needed to succeed in the workplace and live more independent lives.
“This success reflects the strength of partnership working across Somerset, bringing together the council, employers, schools, families and communities to create opportunities and deliver better outcomes for young people.”
Julie Young, Senior Advisor for Careers and Pathways at Somerset Council, said: “We are incredibly proud that Imagine the Possibilities has received national recognition through the LGC Awards.
“The programme demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together to challenge expectations and create meaningful employment opportunities for young people with SEND. This award belongs to the young people, families, schools, employers and partners who make the programme such a success.”
Award ceremony
The winners of the 2026 LGC Awards were announced at a ceremony in London on 10 June, bringing together councils and public sector organisations from across the UK to celebrate excellence and innovation in local government.
