GROUPS working to improve the standard of life for disabled people in Swindon have been awarded grants of around £200,000 from the Lottery Community Fund.

Both the Working for Oppor- tunities Trust at the Shaftesbury Centre on Percy Street and the Swindon Coalition for Disabled People (SCODP) based at the Pembroke Centre in Cheney Manor have received huge boosts following their successful grant applications.

The Working for Opportunities Trust is set to receive a grant of £212,881 to expand the services they offer to help disabled people recognise their skills and raise their confidence so that they can find work.

The money will help to pay for the salary of four staff, as well as travel, training and general running costs.

Lynda Pearce, disability equality trainer said: "It is terrific news, the money will allow us to deliver our service to more people and work closer with businesses in the area to make them understand the importance of working with disabled.

"But it will also allow our members to recognise their career choices and broaden their horizons."

John Green, of the Working for Opportunities Trust, said: "This grant will help disabled people to play a full-time part in their communities, enjoying the same opportunities as other people."

The Swindon Coalition for Disabled People (SCODP) is to receive a grant for £198,473 over three years. The coalition was formed in May 1997 to campaign for rights for disabled people.

It's run by a small group of volunteer trustees and has a membership of 200 groups and individuals.

The money will allow it to continue and develop services that will help disabled people to play a full-time part in their communities and enjoy the same opportunities as other people.

Stephen Milner of the SCODP said: "We appreciate the continued work and support of the Community Fund whose grant will enable us to continue our work and develop it in working with black and minority ethnic people, children and young people.

"We will also be working with groups and organisation in the voluntary sector to ensure that they understand the benefits of making their services accessible."

Lin Whitfield, chairwoman of the Community Fund's South West Committee which makes the grant making decisions said: "I am pleased that these groups have been successful in their applications and that their hard work has paid off.

"The quality of the applications is very high.

"We want the Lottery money to reach the most disadvantaged people and help those most in need," said Ms Whitfield.