BOURNEMOUTH has been chosen as just one of three places in the UK to trial a new government initiative.

The new ‘small employer offer’ will launch in the town today, and is aimed at increasing the number of job opportunities for disabled people.

The initiative will make it easier for small businesses to hire disabled people. It offers an enhanced package of support for both employers and jobseekers while they are trying to find work and once they have found a job.

People participating in the campaign will be fast tracked for the Access to Work scheme. This will ensure that support is available to disabled employees and their employers on the very first day.

Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson said: “Bournemouth is a fantastic place to trial this new approach."

“There are already so many people and organisations in the town who share our ambition to get disabled people into employment.”

The initiative will launch 9am-11am at Bournemouth Jobcentre Plus.