A scheme to get single parents back to work is set to be given the go ahead.

Sutton council is looking to save thousands of pounds in benefit claims a year by helping lone parents get jobs.

But despite comparatively high employment in Sutton, lone parents are repeatedly missing out on jobs.

Sutton Council will submit a bid to the European Social Fund - subject to formal approval by the Strategy and Resources Committee on May 13 - which will be match funded by the authority.

If approved the funding could be in place for the scheme to start by June.

The scheme forms part of the borough’s Opportunity Sutton Programme - launched in June 2012 - which is an economic strategy aiming to boost inward investment and increase the employment opportunities and prosperity of the borough.

The project would require a financial commitment of £100,000. Of this, £50,000 would come from the council’s Opportunity Sutton programme.

Councillor Jayne McCoy, chairman of the Housing, Economy and Business Committee said: "The scheme will help give single parents the tools and the confidence to step back into the work place.

Many parents are unsure about how getting back into work will affect their lives and the lives of their children. This project will help them understand the impacts and can provide assistance.

"Opportunity Sutton is about providing the environment for our residents to fulfil their potential. Sometimes we all need a little support and guidance to make a positive step."

As of January 30, Sutton had 1,949 lone parents.