AN organisation helping the unemployed back to work has just opened new, larger offices.

Action 4 Employment has moved into new premises on the corner of Eskdale Street and Larchfield Street, in Darlington.

The group works with the Government's New Deal initiative to help the long-termed unemployed get back into work.

Staff talk to employers in the town to find out what vacancies they have and then work with individuals to equip them with the skills to fill the vacancies.

Kelly Jagger, of Action 4 Employment said: "We don't do quick fixes. We want to find people long-term jobs.

"People have to be referred to us by their New Deal representative and then we work with them to find sustainable employment for them."

The group now employs 12 staff in Darlington, who work closely with businesses to find out what gaps they have in their workforce.

There are training rooms in the new premises which can be used to help people who need to learn advanced skills in order to be suitable for a specific job.

Ms Jagger said: "We work closely with employers and try to locate the people they need for their company.

"It is a one-to-one service that works with the employers and the people seeking work."

The expansion of the operation means it will be able to help more unemployed people and work with more employers.

Ms Jagger said: "We are working well in Darlington. There are unemployed people in the town but many do want to work.

"One thing we won't do is force people into jobs and a lot of people we see are in the unemployment cycle and can't imagine getting out.

"We work with these people to give them the confidence and determination they want to get back into the work place.

"Sometimes that is all people need. Once they have the basic skills and the confidence they are suitable for vacancies that arise."