A PROJECT which helps people get back to work is expanding.

Social Housing Enterprise Durham (Shed) began in Moorside, Consett, in 2011, run by Derwentside Homes, and later expanded to east Durham.

Now it has opened a new office in Langley Park, near Durham City, after securing £30,000 funding from Durham County Council’s Mid Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP).

Under the scheme, people who have been unemployed for at least six months learn gardening, decorating and odd jobs.

Last year, Shed took on 17 people, of which 11 went on to find full-time work with local firms.

Paul Walton, Shed’s operations manager, said: “This is a very important development for Shed and we are really looking forward to delivering this service to local people living in Langley Park and the Mid Durham corridor.

“This initiative makes a huge difference to people’s lives, giving them the chance to secure employment and providing them with a wage to support themselves and their families.

“We are very grateful to receive the funding which will benefit hundreds of residents in the area.”

Andy Coulthard, co-ordinator of Mid Durham AAP, said: “The AAP are proud to support a scheme with such a good track record within the local community.

“There are a number of employment schemes operating throughout the county, but what makes this so much more than an employment scheme is how it can also support vulnerable and older people by providing them the home improvement services.”

An opening ceremony was held at the new Shed office on Thomas Street, Langley Park, today (Thursday, July 3).