The helpline will be staffed by recruitment professionals and will connect those who are looking for support with their job hunt to an expert able to offer free advice on how to write a CV, as well as tips on interview techniques and presentation.

The Big Issue has joined forces with resourcing firm Momenta, which provides jobs in sectors such as financial services, technology and legal.

The move is the latest innovation from the Ride Out Recession Alliance (Rora), which was formed by Big Issue founder Lord John Bird to help the Government tackle homelessness and unemployment caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lord Bird said: “We are delighted Momenta are bringing their support and expertise to address employability coaching.

“Keeping people in work over this time is the key to reducing poverty. Therefore, equipping individuals with the skills and confidence to aim for new employment is fundamental right now.”

Momenta Group founder Richard Stevens said: “Every industry needs to play its role in getting the economy going, so we, as recruiters, will use our knowledge, expertise, empathy and instinct to support jobseekers back into the workplace.

“We know there are many unemployed due to the pandemic who have not been in the employment market for years, and will need a refresh, review and a friendly coach to support their journey back to work.”

It comes after the Big Issue helped to launch a new fund offering people the chance to invest in “green” companies.

It is aimed at companies that get at least half their revenue from tackling climate change and other environmental challenges. A fifth of the revenue from the fund will be reinvested back into The Big Issue.