A new project has been launched to give the long-term unemployed more chance of getting a job.

Brighton Housing Trust has started The Intern Programme to provide opportunities for up to 40 people a year to take an internship in the organisation.

It will enable participants to gain the skills and experience needed to increase their employability.

The placements will be based in Brighton and Hove, Eastbourne and Hastings and will take six months to complete.

Everyone who takes part in the scheme will follow a tailored training programme to gain the skills employers look for.

The scheme is open to everyone who has experienced long-term unemployment, those who lack the skills and experience to break into the job market and BHT clients.

Intern programme co-ordinator Rob Robinson said: “The programme will give participants the edge when entering what is an incredibly competitive jobs market.

“They will graduate with CV boosting skills and experience and their commitment will be recognised.”

Everyone who enrols on the scheme will be supported by a trained mentor.

BHT chief executive Andy Winter said: “I am confident our clients will progress to paid employment.”