A CHARITY which helps unemployed disabled adults start their own business is to receive a cash boost this week.

The East Lancashire into Employment training centre based at Queen Street Mill Business Units, Burnley, provides advice, support and practical help to fledgling firms from across the area.

There are currently 16 small businesses based in the centre including ceramics, woodworking and desktop publishing.

The Lloyds TSB Foundation is presenting ELIE with a £5,946 donation.

"Learning disabilities affect about 1.2 million throughout the UK, many of who are keen to work and gain independence," said Margaret Monckton, health and support worker for ELIE.

"Through working with us and becoming self employed they have the opportunity to learn new skills and challenge themselves as well as the chance to show qualities that may otherwise remain hidden."

The Lloyds TSB Foundation supports grassroots charities that enable people to play a fuller role in society. This year it will be distributing more than £2 million to voluntary groups in the North West.

"This scheme helps to provide the training required for individuals to make a contribution to their local community and their on lives," said Susan McDermott of Lloyds TSB in Burnley.

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