A NEW initiative has been launched in Shepherd's Bush to help unemployed people back into work.

QPR in the Community Trust, the charitable arm of the Premier League club, has teamed up with Totaljobs.com for the 'Off the Bench' scheme.

Targeting over 35s, it will offer a 13-week course in CV writing, interview techniques and building up confidence and improving their job prospects for people in W12 who have been out of work for six months or more.

Andy Evans, QPR Trust chief executive, said: “Our mission is to inspire change in the communities in which we operate. As a responsible football club in London, it is our job to equip disenfranchised groups with the right skills and the partnership with Totaljobs.com will ensure that the correct support is given to these groups.

“We hope this will become an example to other private and third sector organisations to work together for the greater good.”

The scheme will also encourage local employers to help build relationships and offering to mentor unemployed people in Shepherd's Bush.

The course will end with a graduation ceremony at Loftus Road along with the opportunity for work experience.

John Salt, Totaljobs.com director, said: “I am deligted to be continuing our partnership with QPR Trust in which we offer our expertise to make a real difference to the local community.

“As the public sector shrinks and the jobs market becomes tougher than ever, it is vital that initiatives like ours exist to provide jobseekers with a route back into work.”

Applications for the course must be received by Thursday, September 8. For more information click here .