Peter Rayner was 42 and had never worked. He had been advised by his GP that certain work could add to his health problems.

Despite taking part in basic employment training and work-based learning for adults, Mr Rayner's lack of work experience was a barrier.

Thanks to Employment Zone, which also paid for his work clothes, Mr Rayner is working as a domestic assistant for Swift FM UK.

"I am enjoying every minute of working, it's brilliant," said Mr Rayner.

"I've never had a job or worked a machine in my life and now I've been shown how to do it and I love it. It's great getting to know people at work and learning how to communicate well. I wish I'd done it years ago."