THE launch of an unemployment forum will give fresh hope to hundreds of people searching for jobs and training in Darlington.

The Darlington Unemployed Forum will be the first of its kind in the town.

It will offer advice and information on job vacancies, career changes and training.

The free scheme will be launched on July 13. It follows in the footsteps of a similar project that has proved successful for hundreds of people in South Tyneside.

Anyone struggling to find a job, or who simply wants advice on a change of career, can take advantage of the forum, which will be held regularly at different venues in the town.

A survey in May found that almost five per cent of people in Darlington were unemployed - 2,300 in total. Although the figures are lower than elsewhere in the region, organisers say the scheme is still important to the town.

Dave Appleby, forum organiser and development worker with the Skerne Park Community Enterprise Association, said: "Although the unemployment rate is better in Darlington than many places in the region, those without a job often feel even more isolated.

"We can't promise people jobs, but we can give people guidance, advice and information on the services available, and people can tell us where they feel services can be improved."

The forum will be supported by various groups and will be open to people of all ages, including school-leavers and those concerned that they may be too old to find work.

The scheme will be backed by representatives from Darlington Borough Council, Darlington College of Technology, Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and the Careers Service.

The first forum will be at the Red Lion pub, Priestgate, Darlington, at 11am, on July 13.

Those attending will receive a free drink and will be able to take away information on the various unemployment services and training opportunities available.

Mr Appleby said: "This is really bringing all the employment and training services together under one roof, and even if people don't walk away with a job, they will be able to speak to others in their position, who can advise them on where to look for training or a vacancy"