A new £7.6 million Government initiative has been launched to help more than 2,000 adults with learning disabilities and autism move into work.

The Local Supported Employment initiative is providing grant funding to 24 local authorities in England and Wales, representing an investment of £7.6 million over the next three years.

In West Yorkshire, £980,000 will be available to support 280 jobseekers with learning disabilities and autism.

Chloe Smith MP, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, said: “Disabled people deserve the same opportunities to start, stay and succeed in employment as everyone else.

“We know that those with autism and learning disabilities can face particular barriers to employment, which is why we’re spending almost £1 million here in West Yorkshire through the Local Supported Employment initiative.”

She added: “We hope to break down those barriers and use local networks to help more disabled people reach their full potential.”