A scheme which connects top young talent with the best companies has been hailed a success.

The intern placement programme, which helps Sussex SMEs find the brightest job-hunters, was launched six months ago.

It is run by Wired Sussex, which contributes 60% to interns’ salaries for the first six weeks.

The organisation helps companies with advertising, shortlisting, contracting and payments for the duration of the placement.

Wired Sussex uses its database of more than 1,000 qualified and experienced candidates looking for work in the creative, digital and tech industries.

This saves businesses sifting through hundreds of CVs with the best applicants ready for interview.

Companies pay 40% of the wage during the six-week period, which amounts to £688.50+ VAT, with all interns paid the Brighton Living Wage of £7.65 per hour.

Claire Eden, director of Trackpal, said: “As a fast growing SME, making the right hiring decisions is essential – we’ve developed a strong, supportive company culture and want to ensure that we’re building a team with the right attitude for our company.

“Being able to trial someone as an intern – seeing how they fit with the team, their aptitude for learning and enthusiasm for the role – before offering a full time position, is a great way to ensure we’re making the right decisions.”

Adam Lee, managing director of No Pork Pies, said: “For small agencies the Internship Placement Programme offers a risk-free way to take on some of the brightest talent in Sussex on a short-term basis.

“The process is simple, meaning that there was little effort required from us to get someone in place quickly. Our ‘intern’ is now a full-time staff member and we’ve got Wired Sussex to thank for that.”

To get involved with the scheme fill out a form on the website at placements.wiredsussex.com/Registration/Company.aspx or alternatively send an email to rachel@ wiredsussex.com or call 01273 692888.