MP Nicola Blackwood visited staff at charity Aspire Oxford today to see how it helps trainees previously out of work.

The charity, based in Oxford, has a grounds maintenance contract at the Net centre in Abingdon.

It helps people who have been out of work for a number of years to find employment, including the homeless.

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Ms Blackwood said: “I look forward to seeing trainees go from strength to strength.

"The work under way at the Net Centre is instrumental in helping people to gain not only skills and essential links to employers, but also helping them to gain confidence.

"I look forward to seeing trainees here go from strength to strength with the help of Aspire, and would encourage locals to take advantage of their community transport services and sports activities to combat isolation for vulnerable people."

The Net off Stratton Way is an early intervention centre run by the county council and offers support to children, young people and families.