A specialist recruitment agency which opened its Bradford office two years ago has clocked up its 500th success in finding full-time work for people with disabilities and long-term health problems.

Remploy helped 22-year-old Martin Garside, from Odsal, find a permanent role at the Asda store in Shipley.

The agency works with employers throughout the city to ensure people with disabilities and long-term health conditions are considered equally for job vacancies.

The Remploy office in Howard House, Bank Street, works with retailers, offices, cleaning firms, call centres as well as Bradford Council and the NHS to identify suitable vacancies.

Martin was referred to Remploy by Jobcentre Plus on Nelson Street, which recognised he would benefit from the services such as help with CV-writing, confidence-building and support with job interviews.

Denise Bryce, Remploy’s Bradford manager, said: “Martin is an ideal example of how our branch in Bradford supports both candidates and employers to ensure successful outcomes for both parties “He’s also a milestone candidate for us – our 500th placement into permanent employment – which is a true celebration for my colleagues and for me.

Lisa Fryer, Asda’s people services manager, said: “Asda in Shipley has built a rapport with Remploy in Bradford, and Martin is the latest of many colleagues to have come to us with Remploy’s support. It’s a relationship that is very successful for everybody.”

Martin’s new role includes operating the checkouts, helping customers with their purchases and keeping shelves stocked.

He said: “Over the past few years I have applied for many jobs, but nobody would give me a chance. Thanks to Remploy and Asda, I have an opportunity to prove myself and I’m grasping it with both hands.”

Denise said that local Remploy staff also provided a counselling role.

She said: “Sometimes, people do not recognise they have a disability, which could include suffering from stress due to lifestyle problems.

“Many of our clients come here thinking they will not work again, but it’s surprising how many opportunities there are for people with a disability, and we try and match those to individual needs.

“Although finding work is our main role, we are also here to challenge perceptions and raise expectations.

“Our knowledge means we can follow-up on people once they’re in a post and organisations can call on us for help.”

People with disabilities and health conditions can contact Remploy’s Bradford branch on 0300 4568054.