Jobcentre Plus helped Mold mother Sarah Thomas to find another job after becoming unemployed.

Earlier this week, James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, proposed that income support and incapacity benefits are both to be scrapped by 2013.

This would then make way for a more beneficial and effective system, he said.

Sarah 29, had to leave her previous job as a production operator in a factory because her hours were incompatible with caring for her three-year-old son.

Jobcentre supplied Sarah with a Local Employment Partner (LEP) work trial, as well as training for skill-building, and she now works as a customer assistant in Tesco.

"LEPs work with Jobcentre Plus to help people most in need get into work," said Jobcentre Plus's Derek Ellis.

"Partners like Tesco offer flexible working hours, ideal for lone parents like Sarah."

Sarah said: "I'm not only better off financially, but my flexible hours mean I can spend more time with my son."

Being eligible for childcare and housing costs, Sarah is still receiving assistance and she continues to get support from Jobcentre Plus.

"I think other parents like me should realise how much the Jobcentre can help, no matter what your situation, or how many hours you want to work," said Sarah.

The new system is based on two benefits: Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), for those unable to work because of a medical condition, and Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), for all those who are able to work.

Mr Purnell said: "Our proposals are based on a simple deal: more support in return for greater responsibility.

"We will help people find work, but they will be expected to take a job."

Anyone currently receiveing incapacity benefit will be medically assessed under the new system, to see what they are capable of.

They will also receive personalised support to help them obtain and keep a job.

The proposal will be discussed over three months of public consultations.