A project by two Watford and Three Rivers housing associations to create jobs and training opportunities has been recognised with a national award.

Jobs at home: Three Rivers and Watford, an initiative created by Thrive Homes and Watford Community Housing Trust in 2013, has won the Best Training Scheme category in the 24Housing Awards.

The project recruits tenants who were previously unemployed or in insecure employment to carry out maintenance work in their properties.

The scheme has been franchised to other housing providers in the south east, with further Jobs at home projects set to launch elsewhere in the UK over the coming year.

Tina Barnard, chief executive of Watford Community Housing Trust, said: "Jobs at home offers full training and a new career to people who have been struggling to find a job - while also providing a much-needed service to our tenants. We’re thrilled with this award which we feel is richly deserved."

Elspeth Mackenzie, chief executive of Thrive Homes, said: "Jobs at home is key to delivering our vision of thriving communities where there are life choices and opportunities. We are delighted that Jobs at home has been recognised and really proud of the partnership and people who made it happen."

Neil Jarrett, chief executive of Jobs at home, said: "To have won this award against tough competition is a huge achievement for us, but what’s even more rewarding is seeing the difference Jobs at home has made to people’s lives in Three Rivers and Watford. We’re looking forward to repeating that success as we roll out Jobs at home in other parts of the country."