A PARTNERSHIP between Newport City Council and Jobcentre Plus that aims to help unemployed people find work was officially launched on Friday.

It focuses on finding employment for those who have been out of work for a substantial amount of time.

Staff from both organisations will be co-located at the Information Station in Newport city centre.

Expert support and advice is given to help people achieve personal development, skills and vocational qualifications to improve their employment chances.

Councillor Deborah Davies, Newport City Council’s cabinet member for skills and work, attended the launch and took part in one of the group sessions.

She said: "It is clear that by working together, the council and Jobcentre Plus are making a huge difference to the lives of people who have so much to give if they are given a chance.”

From October 2012 to November 2013, the council supported 960 people in looking for employment and, as a result, over half found work.

Julie Kennedy, from Jobcentre Plus, said: "The Information Station is an excellent example of how partnership working with Newport City Council benefits the residents of Newport."