A GOVERNMENT pilot is being launched in Crewe to help combat long term unemployment.

The Jobseekers Mandatory Activity scheme, developed by the Department for Work and Pensions, will help people aged 25 and over who have been unemployed and receiving benefit for six months.

One of the UK's largest employment and training providers A4e will deliver the scheme toCrewe jobseekers.

Participants will take part in a three-day programme to learn new skills, gain confidence and change their approach in order to find suitable employment.

The work-focused pilot will run for two years and will focus on areas including confidence building and job search skills.

The trainers will work with Motivational Systems, the country's leading provider of 'cognitive behaviour therapy', to provide innovative and work-focused training.

This training will be delivered via a range of multi-media activities designed to reinforce motivation and commitment by identifying barriers.

A4e's Ian Boulton said: "It is important that we support client's aspirations and work with them to consider career goals, past work history and barriers they might be facing.