A community group helping young people find jobs has chosen Ebbw Vale Innovation Centre as its new home.

Neil Hirst, of Tillery Action for You, said the innovation centre’s location had been an important factor in the move.

He said: “EVIC is well situated in Blaenau Gwent, where we operate, and we will reduce our travelling times significantly."

TAFY’s workforce consists of young apprentices who work as teams around the county, on grounds maintenance, decorating and refurbishment projects, charged at cost price.

The experience they gain normally enables them to find full time employment at the end of the programme.

Mr Hirst said: “Last year nine apprentices went through the system and obtained jobs at the end of it."

TAFY, which was previously based in Blaina, is taking office space and workshops at EVIC.

Centre administrator Ruth Headon said: "We are delighted to welcome them here as new tenants. EVIC is an excellent location for an organisation which travels around Blaenau Gwent and we are pleased they have chosen us.”

EVIC offers flexible accommodation on ‘easy-in easy-out’ terms, in high spec buildings near the redeveloped steel works site. To cope with demand, the centre doubled in size in recent years, and is home to a diverse community of businesses and organisations.

She said: “EVIC has fulfilled a demand for high quality accommodation for growing and established companies. We have seen many grow and develop here, fulfilling their potential."

Mr Hirst said: “We think Ebbw Vale will be more central for us and more convenient. Also the facilities at the innovation centre are perfect for our needs.”

Tafy, a not-for-profit organisation, was set up five years ago, having its origins in local community groups. It developed from the Communities First initiative, and has links to the Co-Operative movement and the Coalfields Regeneration Trust.

Working primarily with 16 to 24 year olds who have been affected by unemployment, TAFY aims to build confidence and self-esteem to help young people compete more effectively in the hunt for jobs.