THE launch of an initiative to help the long-term unemployed of Burnley back to work has taken another step forward with the appointment of a manager.

Rachael White, 32, is project manager for the Transitional Work Programme.

The scheme, led by Vedas Recruitment and training, will help those who find it the most difficult to get a job, including the disabled, single parents, the poorly qualified, young people at risk of offending and ex-offenders back into the workplace.

Mrs White, who grew up in Burnley, will be responsible for enrolment and employer liaison for the scheme to be launched later this month.

She will set up and manage paid work placements, training, support and aftercare.

The former Ivy Bank school pupil has returned to the area after working for student accommodation company Unite. She is married with two children.