People in Whitehaven are being offered the chance to boost their skills in a new community scheme.

Mirehouse Community Centre Association is inviting residents to upgrade their skills thanks to the Coalfields Community Investment Programme.

It means that people with few or no skills will have the chance to attend a variety of training courses.

They can learn about fundraising, business planning, basic accountancy and customer relations. They will also be given access to a range of online courses.

The scheme is being delivered by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, the only organisation dedicated to supporting former mining towns and villages.

Katrina MacEwan, development officer for Mirehouse Community Centre Association, said: "Thanks to the funding provided by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, we can help those who have found it difficult to secure employment to upgrade their skills and their CV’s.

"The courses will deliver a number of benefits including to help people that take part with the chance to get off benefits and to consider a future career. In addition, we are helping those who take part to work towards a better future for themselves and their families."

Funding of £8,480 has been secured through the investment programme for the venture.

Mirehouse Community Centre Association will also have access to a bespoke schedule of practical support through the programme.

Developed to meet with the specific needs of the organisation and its service users, this can vary from help with third-party funding applications and bid-writing, to tips on effective promotion and marketing.

Andy Lock, head of operations for the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, said: "We know that the levels of skills and employment in the coalfields is disproportionately lower than the national average, that’s why it is important that we do not turn our backs on these communities.

"By working alongside organisations like Mirehouse Community Centre Association, that do all they can to help local residents, we can make a lasting and positive impact."