REFUGEES are being given a helping hand to find training and work in Southampton, thanks to a new programme called Brites Plus.

The initiative, run by the Wheatsheaf Trust, helps people from black and ethnic minority communities to improve their English, understand the world of work and get to grips with UK culture.

The eventual aim is to help them into jobs and make sure they integrate into the city's community.

Refugees and recent migrants can sign up to a free 13-week training programme, with courses run by Eastpoint Training and Southampton's colleges.

Gavin Silver, from the Wheatsheaf Trust, said: "Many refugees are skilled professionals in their own countries, but their qualifications and experiences may not be recognised here. Others have little or no experience and just want a job to earn some money.

"In all cases, the lack of English skills acts as a barrier.

"We have recently helped a vet from Ethiopia to transfer his skills to work in the UK and a refugee from Algeria to access training as a forklift truck driver."

For more information, call Gavin on 023 8023 7662.