A CHARITY aimed at helping people who have been made redundant is going from strength to strength and is now able to offer advice sessions to those who have been directly affected.

The Joseph Carney Memorial Trust (JCMT) was created to offer a "safety net" for people, predominantly men over 50 who find themselves out of a job.

It was formed by Diane Carney in memory of her husband who died in 2013 following a battle with depression.

A recent charity quiz night at Bishop Road Police Club attracted 90 people and helped raise £450.

Diane, 47, from Dentons Green, said: "We now have Debra Thomas, our employment advisor, running sessions every Friday at the Gate Lodge in Victoria Park.

"The sessions are on a referral basis, either self referral or from leaflet drops or from similar organisations as JCMT. We have had a couple of referrals from Citizens Advice and the Wellbeing service in St Helens.

"Once clients have contacted us they are given an appointment on the Friday between 10.30am and 2.30pm. Debbie then decides what pathway best suits the client and what their ultimate objective is. This could vary depending on the person affected. They may need some counselling to build up their confidence or more practical advice.

"Ideally our long term goal is to be able to job match individuals with their chosen role or career."

For further information about the trust call 07553091487.