Charities launch jobs project for young disabled people
Six Scottish charities have launched a project which aims to get more young disabled people into jobs.
The Open Doors Scotland project plans to help 350 disabled people aged 16-24 find and sustain employment.
It was launched by Enable Scotland, The Lennox Partnership, RNIB, Action on Hearing Loss, Capability Scotland and Scottish Association for Mental Health.
The project is being funded by Skills Development Scotland through its Employment Recruitment Incentive (ERI).
ERI already supports young carers, care leavers and ex-offenders.
Payments of up to £1,500 will be made available to employers who recruit a young person with a disability for a minimum of 15 hours or more per week.
Open Doors Scotland will provide support for both employers and young people.
Support will include advising employers on specific health and safety issues in the workplace and giving guidance on modifications to organisational policy or practice.
Minister for Youth Employment Angela Constance said: "The Scottish government is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent young people with disabilities or learning difficulties securing job opportunities.
"Seeing Open Doors Scotland up and running is great progress and marks the beginning of an exciting new phase in helping more young people with additional support needs into the workplace."