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, , 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
