Orchard Therapeutic Care
Employment & Training
Moving into work or training is a big part of building independence. There are lots of opportunities out there for care-experienced young people – from apprenticeships and internships to local employer schemes and training programmes.
But it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why Orchard Therapeutic Outreach offers practical, step-by-step support to help you explore options, build confidence, and get ready for work.
Whether it’s writing your CV, preparing for an interview, understanding your first payslip, or planning your travel to work, we’ll walk alongside you so you feel supported and prepared.
How Orchard helps (Weeks 5 & 8–10)
CVs & interviews: One-to-one CV/cover letter writing, mock interviews, and help applying for real vacancies and apprenticeships.
Getting started: Right-to-work checks, HMRC starter forms, banking, travel planning, and interview/work clothing referrals.
In-work money: We plan your first-month budget, explain pay cycles, and signpost emergency pots/energy vouchers if needed.
What’s out there
Apprenticeships (earn while you learn)
If you’re care-experienced, there’s a Care Leavers’ Bursary (currently £3,000, paid in instalments via your training provider (August 20250). Many sectors recruit apprentices: construction, hospitality, health & social care, digital, land-based, etc.
Civil Service Care Leavers Internship
Paid roles (usually 12–18 months) across government, with support and potential to become permanent.
Local employers & programmes
Some national retailers and local employers have schemes for care leavers.
Employment support
Jobcentres, the National Careers Service, and specialist charities offer CV help, interview coaching and in-work mentoring