A WIDOW who founded a new charity which aims to offer help and guidance to people affected by redundancy and long term unemployment says the response to their launch has been “overwhelming”.

Diane Carney set up the charity named in memory of her late husband Joseph, who died aged 50 in September 2013 following a battle with depression.

The Joseph Carney Memorial Trust held a launch party at the Police Club on Boundary Road raising £2,700.

Diane, 50, from Dentons Green, said: “There were around 140 people who turned up. It was amazing. The local response from sponsors has been so generous.”

Diane's story featured in the Star in September and the publicity helped generate a number of calls from organisations keen to work in partnership.

She added: “We are looking to attract people to work with us and help get people back into work.”

The trust offers a number of services from helping people deal with unemployment, offering practical support as well as building confidence and morale.

People who have been made redundant can go to the charity for an assessment and will be given advice from CVs to interview techniques.

Diane said that after getting their charity accreditation she expects them to see a busy few weeks.

She said: “We will be putting leaflets and posters in places where men frequent including pubs, betting shops and gyms.

“We are also about to get a website up and running and should see a lot of movement in the next two to three weeks.”

For further information about the trust call 07553091487.