More than 800 people from across South Wales will benefit from a new £2.5m EU-backed scheme to help them into work.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Led by Newport Council and supported by £1.3m of EU funding, the Journey2Work initiative will provide specialist support to long-term unemployed people over 25 in Newport, Monmouthshire and Cardiff.
The project will provide mentoring, training and financial support for travel costs and work clothes as well as volunteering opportunities to people who face significant barriers to securing work.
Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford said:
“Supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable people to gain new skills will help them to take the next steps into employment. I am pleased EU funds are being invested to increase learning, tackle poverty and support a more inclusive society in Wales.”
Councillor Gail Giles, Newport Council’s cabinet member for education and skills added:
“Providing the right support to people to help them into work is so important – not just for individuals but for our wider communities. I am delighted money is being invested in this project and that Newport is able to lead on this initiative.”
The project is being delivered in partnership with Monmouthshire Housing Association and Cardiff Council and will work with people living in social housing.