A SCHEME offering paid and unpaid work experience to Newport residents dubbed pioneering by the city’s council was launched at Malpas Court yesterday.

The Work Based Learning Academy (WBLA) will support opportunities for young people, graduates, apprentices and the long-term unemployed.

Previously Newport city council and other organisations offered a pool of work experience placements on an ad hoc basis, but this will now be offered on a formal basis.

Unpaid work placements will be for a minimum of one week and a maximum of one month, while paid placements will be for at least six months.

Councillor Deborah Davies, cabinet member for skills and work, said: “Opening up opportunities to help people find permanent employment is important for the individual but also has an economic benefit for the city.

“We want to ensure that local people have the best skills and opportunities so they can be part of Newport’s future growth.”

“Newport council is committed to building on the success of our work programme which has already helped hundreds of unemployed residents find a role in the workplace.”