Combined Authority internship scheme making a big impact on young talent and local business

Combined Authority internship scheme making a big impact on young talent and local business

Pictured: Intern Bobbi Beaumont

A growing Peterborough business has praised the Combined Authority’s internship scheme as a ‘no-brainer’ in supporting its future ambitions.

Peterborough based Realise Finance, a small accounting firm set up in 2020 during the pandemic, currently employs two interns funded by the Combined Authority internship programme. Director Will Blower has welcomed a total of four interns through the scheme across different roles and says the support has been “crucial” to business growth.

“The funding gives us the first foot in the door to see if a role makes sense – and from there we’ve been able to grow and even take people on full-time,” he explained. “Interns bring fresh ideas, energy and qualifications – they just need a little nurturing. For most businesses, the Combined Authority internship scheme is a no-brainer.”

For 19-year-old trainee accountant Bobbi Beaumont, her internship at Realise Finance has been transformative:
“I didn’t want to just learn in the classroom – I wanted real-world experience. At first it was daunting, but I’ve learned accounting software, day-to-day business operations, and grown massively in confidence. I’ve even been trusted with important client work and joined networking events. It’s been the perfect first step for my future.”

Bobbi now plans to progress into an accountancy apprenticeship with the firm – a clear example of how internships can open long-term career pathways.

As part of its role as a Government-designated Youth Trailblazer, the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority is helping local businesses grow while giving young people aged 18–21 their first step into the workplace.

Since April 2024, the Combined Authority has already:
• Engaged 372 local businesses with the Skills and Employment team.
• Helped 153 SMEs complete training needs analysis and workforce skills action plans.
• Supported 899 new apprenticeships since 2021, more than half at Level 3.
• Placed 202 interns with employers, including 44 in Peterborough and 23 in Fenland – areas where support for young people is most needed.

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, said:
“Young people are our region’s future, and schemes like this not only give them a vital first step but also help our businesses to grow. By backing employers to invest in local talent, we’re helping more young people into great careers, supporting healthier, wealthier and happier lives, while growing our economy.”

Through the Match-Funded Internship programme, employers can access:
• 50% salary support for 12 weeks (8–30 hours per week, based on National Minimum or National Living Wage).
• An additional £600 subsidy to offset onboarding costs such as equipment and training.

Employers can find out more about how to host an intern and access funding support at: Internships for employers

Find out more about Will and Bobbi’s story at Realise Finance below: