Over two years ago international human rights watchdogs condemned the brutal stabbing of Lal who was a leading news reporter on the state-run media organisation Sri Lankan Rupavahini Corporation (SLRC).

Lal was travelling home in the late evening when his car was stopped by two assailants who stabbed him repeatedly. “I was continuously harassed and received death threats” for standing up for free speech. Because my life was constantly on the line I had no choice but to leave my homeland with my family.”

Mr Hemantha Mawalage arrived in the UK in July 2008 and claimed asylum at Heathrow Airport, and was soon sent to a reception centre in South Wales for 28 days - before he was granted a visa to stay in the UK.

Kevin Kelway, South West Media Coordinator for A4e, said: “Lal is a brilliant journalist with over 20 years experience. A4e is supporting him to find employment and other training opportunities. Lal is very keen to work and support his family in the UK.”

42-year-old Lal Hemantha Mawalage moved to Plymouth in August 2008 where his wife and twin boys joined him in October 2008. Lal won the Japan Prize of 2007 and the Gurman Prix Juner Prize. Lal grew up in Sri Lanka and was educated at Colombo University. He was a news anchor on the state run TV channel and at school was the best debater of 1981/82/83 and 1984.

Maria Sargent, ESF Plymouth Works Plus advisor, added: “Lal is a very brave man and desperate to work. He's also a brilliant painter and looking to showcase his art work in the future. Lal has over come so many obstacles over the last few years and we are very proud of him and what he wants to achieve for himself and family.”

European Social Funded Plymouth Works Plus was launched in 2008 and a voluntary programme that is client-focused. Advisors on the programme offer one-to-one support, advice, guidance, sourcing and funding of educational and vocational training, voluntary work, soft skill development, low motivation, confidence, job skills, CV creation, interview techniques, setting up email accounts, completion of job and e-applications, said Contract Manager Carol Boyd of A4e.

Lal, added: “I feel confident about the future and A4e is really supportive and the Plymouth Works Plus programme has really helped me boost my confidence again. Hopefully one day I can return home to Sri Lanka.”