Disabled initiative 'doing well'

Schools and universities have to try to meet special needs

Leicestershire County Council is on course to meet government targets to increase the employment rate for disabled people in the county.

The council has a goal to assist 228 disabled people, who were previously unemployed, into full-time work over a three-year period.

In its first year the initiative has helped 78 disabled people find work.

The Breaking the Barriers team has worked with Job Centre Plus and local employers to offer practical help.

This target is part of the Public Service Agreement (PSA), which provides financial benefits for the council from the government if achieved.

Services on offer can include an assessment of basic skills and suitability for particular vocations, help with preparing for interviews and actual support within the new working environment.

Councillor Roger Miller, said: "Many disabled people make an extremely valuable contribution to the workforce across the county and it is vital that we utilise the skills of all people in society."