A young man who completed a Supported Internship at an Olton family hub has secured his first paid job after impressing staff with his growing confidence and commitment.

JJ recently completed a Supported Internship placement at Elmwood Family Hub, where he worked two days a week throughout the last academic year while receiving training on other days.

Supported Internships are designed for young people aged 16 and over who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), combining practical work experience with formal training to help prepare them for employment.

The placement was JJ's first experience of the workplace.

Staff said he was initially anxious but grew in confidence throughout the year, recently leading a music session for 25 people and performing Beatles songs at the hub's Community Fun Day.

As his placement came to an end, Elmwood Family Hub offered JJ a paid role.

Catherine Price, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's (SMBC) family hub co-ordinator, said: "It's been wonderful to see his confidence grow. We are a busy hub, so it's great to have some extra help through offering a placement.

"We've received a lot of compliments about JJ.

"As his placement was coming to an end, we saw an opportunity to continue his journey and offered him a role.

"We're excited about what his future holds with us over the next couple of years."

JJ said he was "really happy and excited" to receive the job offer.

"This is my first paid job, and it makes me feel more positive and confident about the future.

"My family are proud of me, and I'm proud of myself," he said.

Among those celebrating his success is SMBC family hub support officer Mary Evans, who has known JJ since he was 10 years old and praised the progress he has made towards becoming more independent.

Catherine encouraged other employers to consider offering placements through the scheme.

"I'd encourage every employer to take part in Supported Internships.

"It's a great opportunity for young people to take important steps towards future employment, and it's a great help for the team as well," she added.

Cllr Heather Delaney, SMBC's deputy leader and portfolio holder for economy, business and skills, said the council is committed to ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to find and remain in work.

She said: "We're proud to be leading by example through the team at Elmwood Family Hub, demonstrating how programmes such as Supported Internships can benefit both our residents and employers."

Young people and employers interested in Supported Internships can contact SMBC's Employment and Skills team by emailing [email protected].