Southampton City Council's Supported Employment Initiative receives 'Good' Fidelity Accreditation

Southampton City Council's Supported Employment Initiative receives 'Good' Fidelity Accreditation, celebrating success in supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autism into employment

11/02/2025

Southampton City Council's Local Supported Employment initiative (LSEi) has been awarded a "Good" Fidelity Accreditation following a rigorous two-day inspection by the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF).

This accreditation recognises the high-quality standards and service provided by the Employment Support team in helping adults with learning disabilities and autism, secure and maintain paid employment. Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the LSEi is one of only 23 local authorities across England and Wales delivering this vital support.

The initiative utilises the nationally recognised five stage supported employment model, providing tailored one-on-one support to individuals throughout their employment journey. The model emphasises partnerships with employers to promote equality and diversity in recruitment and within their workforce, ensuring both individual and business needs are met.

The SEQF audit assessed the LSEi's adherence to all five stages of the supported employment model, including business results and key performance indicators. The "Good" Fidelity Accreditation demonstrates the team's commitment to best practices and its positive impact on both individuals and employers. The thorough inspection process included feedback from supported individuals, partner employers, and referral organisations.

Councillor Sarah Bogle, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said:

"We are incredibly proud to have received this 'Good' Fidelity Accreditation. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our Employment Support Team and underscores our commitment to providing effective and person-centred support to individuals with learning disabilities and autism. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to work, and we are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their employment goals."

Key achievements of the Employment Support team (April–September 2024)

We supported:

141 individuals into paid employment
71 individuals into college or training courses
17 individuals into volunteering roles
17 individuals into work trials
16 individuals into work placements
One individual into an apprenticeship with Southampton City Council
Two individuals to start a Supported Internship Programme

Currently, the Employment Support team actively supports 450 individuals.

What else does the Employment Support team do?

The Employment Support team also works closely with local businesses, assisting them in promoting vacancies and recruiting a diverse workforce. They offer guidance and support to employers seeking to create inclusive workplaces. Anyone can be referred to the team, as long as they are over the age of 18, live in Southampton, and are currently unemployed.

Referrals can be made directly by email, phone, or the website. The team can have informal discussions with referrers to ensure that support is tailored to the unique needs of each individual, as well as attend joint meetings that enable warm introductions.

For more information or to make a referral, please:

Visit: Employment Support team
Phone: 023 8091 7585