AN initiative which aims to get people with disabilities or long-term health problems back into work is toasting the success of Fiona Hughes.

Fiona, from Catterick, used to be a medical secretary until she had to give it up because of a repetitive strain injury.

Now, she is working as a community support assistant with North Yorkshire County Council thanks to the Northallerton pilot scheme of RecruitAble.

Fiona had been wary of applying for jobs because of her disability before she contacted the scheme.

"I talked all my fears over with personal advisor Julia Edwards and she made me see that I had a lot of options. It really increased my confidence," said Fiona.

"Being back in work means a great deal to me."

Julia said: "Although figures show that disabled people and people with long-term health problems are extremely effective in the workplace, many employers feel uneasy about offering these candidates jobs.

"This situation results in skilled disabled people remaining out of work and businesses missing out on a wide range of talents which people with disabilities or long-term illnesses can offer."

Any employer or person with long-term illness or disability who would like to know more about the initiative should contact Helen Thorington on (01609) 774206.