LOCAL employers, including HSBC, the Inland Revenue, Ford and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Strategic Health Authority have collaborated with Southampton Institute to improve the career prospects of its ethnic minority students.

The MERITS career enhancement programme offers seminars on subjects such as preparing a CV and work experience placements with nine local employers.

MERITS leader, Dr Steve Lake, said: "Unemployment rates for non-white graduates continue to be significantly higher than for their white counterparts. This programme has a track record for enabling students to succeed despite the barriers." Contact merits@solent.ac.uk.