Minister sets targets to help disabled employees

8th March 2010

A minister has announced targets to aid disabled people in the workplace.

Jonathan Shaw stated that, from April this year, 2,000 individuals with learning disabilities and up to 1,500 people with mental health conditions will be guaranteed places on the Access to Work programme.

The scheme provides workers and their managers with advice and support which may be required because of their additional needs.

Mr Shaw said: "Last year Access to Work helped over 32,000 people and this number will continue to grow as the programme budget grows."

He added that people with mental health and learning disabilities face complex barriers when it comes to employment, making it more difficult for them to stay in work and find a job in the first place.

However, the additional money to be spent on the programme will ensure that even more help reaches those who need it, Mr Shaw went on to note.