Building an inclusive workforce with Sodexo Colchester
Through its Supported Internship programme, delivered with ECL and Colchester Institute, Sodexo Colchester PFI is creating pathways into employment for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism. The initiative has already helped interns develop skills, confidence and independence, with two participants securing a permanent role, while enabling Sodexo to build stronger, more inclusive teams.
An advocate of inclusive employment, Sodexo Colchester provides facilities management services for The British Army’s Colchester Garrison at Merville Barracks, as well as Colchester Hospital.
The organisation views inclusive recruitment as a key part of attracting a diverse range of skillsets to its workforce and was keen to explore new ways to attract talent and build strong teams.
In September 2025 Sodexo embarked upon its first Supported Internship programme. Delivered in partnership with ECL’s Supported Employment service and Colchester Institute, the programme has shown how inclusive recruitment can benefit both individuals and employers.
Regional Support Manager, Laura Moorcroft, had a strong personal and professional interest in inclusive employment. Through previous experience supporting colleagues with learning disabilities and/or autism, she understood the value that individuals can bring when given the right opportunity.
She explains:
“When ECL approached us about introducing a Supported Internship programme, we saw the potential. However, as this was new to our site, we wanted to take a measured approach. We started with a small group of three interns, allowing us to focus on building a programme that worked well for both the interns and our team.”
The key to why this programme is doing so well is the partnership working between Sodexo Colchester PFI, ECL and Colchester Institute. The college works closely with both Sodexo and ECL to ensure that the classroom elements of the programme support what the interns are learning on the job as well as cover any gaps in core skills that may exist. This combined with on-site job coaching and training provided by ECL Supported Employment specialists means that both the interns and the Sodexo managers have the tools and support they need to succeed.
Laura explains: “The ECL Job Coaches made it very easy for me and for the rest of the Sodexo team. It was new territory for us, but they supported not only the interns but our colleagues as well, which was really important. They quickly became part of our team, embedding themselves into our day-to-day operations. This close partnership helped ensure that everyone felt confident and supported.”
ECL made it easy for me and for the rest of the Sodexo team - supporting both the interns and our colleagues, which was important.
Laura Moorcroft, Regional Support Manager, Sodexo Colchester PFI
One of the programme’s success stories is Helen Thompson who interned as a Food Service Assistant at the Browning Junior Ranks Diner at Merville Barracks. From the start, it was clear that she was motivated and eager to learn.
Her duties included:
- Serving customers hot food
- Preparing items such as baguettes and jacket potatoes
- Operating the till
- Maintaining cleanliness in seating areas
- Clearing trays and supporting general operations
To support her development, training was delivered in a structured way, focusing on one task at a time. This approach allowed Helen to build her skills gradually and gain confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
Helen quickly became a valued part of the team at Browning. Her line manager, Nick Baxter, Deputy Centre Manager, highlights the positive impact she has had:
“She’s got a lovely personality, she’s friendly and everyone thinks she’s great. The soldiers all think she’s amazing. She’s very confident and adaptable and very calm when it’s busy.”
A model employee, Helen was early for every shift, prepared and ready to work. Over time, she required less direct support from the ECL Job Coaches, showing how effectively the programme builds independence and confidence.
Helen completed her internship in June 2026 and the following month began working for Sodexo as a Food Service Assistant in the Montgomery Junior Ranks Diner at Merville Barracks.
Her integration into the workforce has not only strengthened the team but also contributed to a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
Helen's a real asset to us. She fits right in with the team - we’re like a little family and Helen is very much part of that.
Nick Baxter, Deputy Centre Manager, Sodexo Colchester PFI
Helen’s experience is a strong example of how Supported Internships can benefit employers in practical ways through:
1. Access to motivated talent
Interns choose placements aligned with their interests, meaning they are genuinely motivated. Helen’s passion for catering was clear from the outset.
2. Pre-trained future employees
Interns gain hands-on experience within the business. By the end of the programme, they already understand the role, the environment and the expectations.
“You’re not just recruiting someone new - you’re bringing in someone who already knows the job and can hit the ground running,” says Nick.
3. Reduced recruitment risk
The internship acts as an extended, supported work trial. Both the employer and the intern can assess whether the role is the right fit.
4. Enhanced team culture
Supported Internships encourage teamwork, patience and inclusive practices within the workplace, strengthening overall team dynamics.
5. Ongoing expert support
The presence of ECL Job Coaches ensures that any challenges are quickly addressed and that managers feel supported throughout.
The programme’s success demonstrates what can be achieved when employers, support services and education providers work together.
Laura Moorcroft, Regional Support Manager, Sodexo Colchester PFI
The success of the initial programme has given Sodexo the confidence to increase the size of the next intake. Having seen how well the first three interns have done, managers in other teams are now keen to take on interns from the next group.
Laura says:
“It’s been such a success. It’s something I would 100 per cent recommend to other employers. While it may feel unfamiliar at the beginning, the support available makes the process straightforward and rewarding.
All of our year one interns have done so well and it demonstrates what can be achieved when employers, support services and education providers work together. Through Supported Internships, we are not only helping individuals move into meaningful employment but also building stronger, more inclusive teams. Sodexo is proud to be part of this journey and we look forward to continuing to expand our programme in the future.”
I would one hundred percent recommend supported internships to other employers.
Laura Moorcroft, Regional Support Manager, Sodexo Colchester PFI
Ready to strengthen your team?
