A SCHEME has been launched to help job seekers overcome barriers to work.

The Win project was launched yesterday at the opening of JobCentre Plus, in Thorntree.

The office is the latest to open in a national programme which will eventually replace all existing JobCentres and social security offices.

The Thorntree Win project, run in partnership with recruitment agency Pertemps, is one of 12 Working Neighbourhood pilots set up throughout the country.

The aim of the scheme is to help residents who are in receipt of benefits and those who are looking for work.

Mayor of Middlesbrough Ray Mallon was on hand yesterday to launch the event with regional director Vince Robinson and JobCentre Plus Manager Steve Davidson.

Mr Davidson said: "My staff and I are delighted to be opening our new office in Thorntree.

"The new JobCentre Plus is a world away from the old JobCentres and social security offices.

"It is so much more user-friendly now. Our customers can use our job search facilities, speak to our advisors or inquire about their benefit entitlements, in pleasant surroundings all in one place.

"We have had an overwhelmingly positive response from our customers in other places where the new offices have opened."