A NEW transport project aimed at getting unemployed people back into work through on-the-job training and work experience is proving a success.

Out of the five people who have graduated, three have walked straight into new jobs with community transport operators after attending Transport for Greater Manchester's 'Train, Learn, Drive and Earn' (TLDE) programme.

More than 40 jobseekers from across Greater Manchester are expected to graduate from the programme, which is giving access to training, professional qualifications and work experience.

TfGM's chief executive Jon Lamonte said: "It's helping people back into work while also enabling community transport operators to find well-trained, qualified drivers and warehouse staff, with the necessary skill-set to deliver their services.

"The scheme also gives plenty of transferable skills for the workplace and the feedback from everyone involved has been overwhelmingly positive.

"We now have a waiting list for the training and I look forward to see it making a difference to even more people."

The scheme offers two 12 week-long free courses, either to train as an accredited community transport driver or gain experience in furniture warehousing.

Anyone interested in joining the scheme should speak to Jobcentre Plus, which is working with TfGM to identify suitable trainees.