Education Secretary David Blunkett and Social Security Secretary Alastair Darling were in Chelmsford on Monday -- to launch one of four national pilot schemes where the Government's new deal for jobs and welfare are brought under ONE roof.

They were visiting the renovated Gemini building, which is now the ONE Job Centre, in New London Road.

Gone are the dingy, impersonal atmosphere and ranks of waiting room seats; in are carpeted interview floors comparable to the best bank or building society facilities.

Mr Blunkett, accompanied by his faithful guide dog, Lucy, said: "All too often, people have been written off by the state, or themselves, and have been given little help or encouragement in lifting themselves out of dependency."

Mr Darling said that the aim was to help everyone who felt that they could work and ensure that there was a better safety net for those too severely disabled to work.

Adviser Sue and her client are pictured taking a breather as the ministerial team check out the plush Chelmsford ONE Job centre.

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