Public sector spending cuts may be in the offing, but JobcentrePlus is investing in a new recruitment scheme for smaller businesses.

The service offers advice on job ads, matching the right candidate to the job and knowledge of the local jobs market.

It could even pay for room hire.

It is available to 180,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the south east, including thousands across Kent and Medway.

The service, which the Government claims will save SMEs time and money, was created in consultation with the Federation of Small Businesses, the British Chambers of Commerce and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

Roger House, chairman of the 7,000-member FSB in Kent and Medway, said: "It can be a complex task for small businesses taking on new staff and they need all the help and advice they can get in the recruitment process.

"It is great to see that they can now access a Jobcentre Plus recruitment service tailored to their needs for free.

"Small Businesses are keen to employ, and services such as these help give them the support they need.

Employment minister Chris Grayling said the Government was committed to supporting small businesses which were vital in helping to drive the UK's economic recovery.

"This recruitment service will further help small businesses by taking the hassle out of the recruitment process and saving on recruitment costs," he said.

Details from Jobcentre Plus on 0845 601 2001.