A SWINDON charity that aims to get disabled people into work has received a national standard of excellence award.

Working for Opportunities (WfO) received the prestigious Matrix Quality Standard award for information, advice and guidance services.

It was among a select group of organisations from around the country to receive the award, presented by the Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Roy Walters.

Charity co-ordinator, John Green, 57, who collected the award, said: "This is the result of a lot of hard work from all our staff."

The charity, which is similar to a recruitment agency, works with employers in helping disabled people who are seeking work in Swindon.

There are 49 local employers involved, including the Evening Advertiser.

Michael Wills, Labour MP for North Swindon was keen to congratulate the charity on receiving its award.

He said: "I've met with WFO staff and I've seen for myself the valuable work they do. I am very pleased that this work has been recognised".

Julia Drown, Labour MP for South Swindon, also praised the charity's work.

She said: "Quality information and advice is a key requirement to help disabled people into work and I wish Working for Opportunities every continuing success".

For further information regarding Working for Opportunities, which is based in the Shaftesbury Centre, Rodbourne, phone Swindon 514055, extension 4758 or email admin.wfo@scamp.org.uk.