A Solihull employment programme is helping young people gain valuable work experience and secure jobs, with one participant landing a permanent childcare role after completing a placement.

The Youth Trailblazer programme, delivered by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's (SMBC) Employment and Skills Team, connects 18 to 21-year-olds with employers through supported work experience placements, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and move closer to employment.

One person to benefit from the scheme is Sabba, who struggled to find her first job, despite having a Level 3 qualification in Childcare Studies.

After signing up to the programme, she was matched with a soft play centre for a three-week unpaid placement, giving her the opportunity to gain practical experience and take her first steps into the workplace.

Sabba said: "I was really struggling, but the team showed me lots of options and supported me from the start.

"They made everything easier for me.

"I really enjoyed the voluntary placement, it gave me the experience and confidence to move forward."

Following the placement, Sabba was then matched with Bosworth Wood Community Day Nursery CIC for a 12-week paid placement.

The nursery's manager, Kay Dorris, said the programme provided an alternative way to recruit staff, having experienced recruitment challenges.

She said: "Sabba's been great from the start.

"As she's settled in, she's built strong relationships with the staff and children here."

Kay added: "When the placement was coming to an end, we couldn't imagine letting her go, which is why we offered her a permanent role."

Sabba said the programme has given her the confidence and opportunity she needed.

She added: "I was very happy when I finally received a job offer after such a long time.

"It was all because of the programme.

"I've been telling my friends and family about it because it's helped me so much, and I want to let more people know about it."

Cllr Heather Delaney, SMBC's deputy leader and portfolio holder for economy, business and skills, said: "Finding that first job can be a challenge for young people, even when they have the skills and motivation to succeed.

"Through Youth Trailblazer, we're helping young people gain valuable experience and move into sustainable employment."

The council's Employment and Skills Team offers free employment support to residents aged 18 and over, as well as support for local employers looking to recruit.

More information is available on SMBC's website.