A project aims to help get about 10,000 long-term jobless back into work.

The Shaw Trust's new ways to opportunities scheme will focus on helping 9,947 Middlesbrough people, who have been claiming incapacity benefit for more than two years.

Project leader Joe O'Donnell said: "We know our services are desperately needed in this area.

"Working closely in partnership with other voluntary and community services in the area, we have the flexibility to put a back-to-work plan together for every person who walks through our door."

The project, at the Employment Action Centre, Letitia Industrial Estate, in Middlesbrough, has already signed up 57 clients.

Last week's launch was attended by 30 representatives from local partnership organisations, including Disc and Mental Health Matters.

The two-year project has been funded by the Government through the Northern Way Growth initiative and will reveal how successful wider voluntary services are in engaging with this group of people.

Anyone wanting more information can call 0845-603-9982.