A scheme offering recruitment subsidies to employers has had a brilliant take up after going live just a week ago.

Over 140 companies have signed up for the programme which which will help unemployed people of six months or more into employment.

The idea has been a hit, with employers such as Nestor Healthcare Group, the Royal Mail, Poundland and Dunelm Mill having signed up already.

Employers large and small can benefit, with access to a recruitment subsidy of £1000 and training typically worth £1500 if they take on jobseekers who have been unemployed for six months or more.

James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: "The economic downturn is making it hard for many employers to plan for their future employment needs. We are very pleased to be able to offer a package of support which will not only help employers fill their vacancies, but will also help jobseekers find sustainable work so it's a win-win situation."