Greenwich Council says more than 250 previously unemployed people have now been given work under its jobs scheme.

The project, launched last April, offered six-month placements paying at least the London Living Wage and covering areas like parks, street cleaning and recycling.

According to council statistics, participants - who include 82 single parents - had previously been out of work for an average of five years. And the council says 72 per cent of those taking part have gone on to further employment afterwards.

Cabinet member for community wellbeing and public health Councillor Maureen O’Mara said: "Many congratulations to each of our participants who have actively engaged with the scheme and worked really hard - not only in their placements, but also with their additional efforts to increase their skills, qualifications and long term job prospects." 

She added: "The Royal Borough’s response to the welfare reforms has always been that employment is the best route out of poverty."