SOCIAL Security Minister Hugh Bayley came to Bolton and put the spotlight on disabled people who want to work.

He performed the official opening ceremony for the Bolton New Deal for Disabled People offices.

Bolton is one of six pilot projects nationally and the Minister was keen to chat to employers, Employment Service and Benefit Agency staff and people who have been helped by the Government initiative launched in Bolton in September.

Before unveiling a plaque he said: "I am encouraged by the progress already made in Bolton.

"It is very early days, but nearly 200 people have already responded to an invitation to contact an adviser and more than half are now being given active help with their plans to return to work."

So far the Bolton team of personal advisers - "an important part of the Government's strategy" - has found jobs for 10 disabled people.

Mr Bayley set out the Government's philosophy - they were totally committed to giving necessary financial support to people with severe disabilities and illnesses who were unable to work.

"But many people do work," he said.

"We know that many others want to do so and we want to help them."

He said they were making changes to ensure that when someone with a disability was offered a job, the barriers in the benefits system which might be a deterrent were minimised.

Cllr Bob Howarth, Leader of Bolton Council, said the council was giving full support to the Government's initiative.

"We have already provided five places and I am assured that we will be able to build that up considerably over the next year," he said.

The council is working with the Bolton Disability New Deal team to find work placement opportunities.

Former teacher David Sharples, who had to retire because of ill health, is now employed as a receptionist and administrative assistant at the Bolton Disability New Deal Offices.

He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to re-enter the job market and regain some self-respect.

The offices are in Acresfield House, Crompton Place, Exchange Street, Bolton.

The Freephone telephone number is 0800 389 9374.

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