DWP work coaches praised as Moray benefits claims continue to fall
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WORK coaches from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) across Moray have been hailed for there roll in helping increase the numbers of people back into work.
It comes as the latest benefits claims figures for the region show yet another year-on-year fall, this time for the month of September.
Across all age groups there was a fall of 95 – seven per cent – to 1250, with the 50+ category once again enjoying the lion's share of the decrease, down 19 per cent from 350 to 285. Claims among young people dropped slightly to 240 from 245, a two per cent reduction.
Across Scotland, Moray mirrored the national picture although bucked the trend when it came to 18-24-year-olds.
Overall some 3110 fewer people – 106,085 or three percent – were claiming year on year with 23,835 over-50s doing so, down 2225 (nine per cent). However, the 18-24 bracket saw a two per cent uptick, up 380 to 18,740.
The claimant figures include those on benefits who are in work and those who are looking for work. The local statistics are not seasonally adjusted.
Jane Munro, spokesperson for Moray Jobcentres, paid tribute to the work of DWP work coaches across the region for their role in helping people back into the labour market with an individually tailored approach.
She said: "This week’s employment statistics highlight the great work being done by work coaches across Moray.
"Moray Jobcentres are hosting a full range of activity; working locally with Moray Council, Johnston's of Elgin and McLaughlin and Harvey, we are also delivering training courses to support people move closer to the labour market and we have an upcoming marketplace event on November 23. We are also visiting local communities on the mobile information bus, keep an eye on Moray Pathways Facebook page for more information.
"Jobcentres have a wraparound service as customers with health issues can be access specialist support through a disability employment adviser.
“Tailored support from work coaches is vital so jobseekers are able to reach their full potential. By unlocking the skills and abilities of individuals, people can improve their employment prospects, which in turn helps achieve the government’s priority to grow the economy. Support is available to everyone whether they are leaving education, 50+, have a health condition or progress in work.
"Importantly job seeking parents on Universal Credit can now get extra financial help through increased childcare payments.
Jobseekers can also check out the thousands of vacancies on offer, by searching the DWP Find a Job website or follow Moray Works on Facebook."
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride MP said: “There are more than one million more people on company payrolls compared to 2019, a near record high, and today’s statistics also show inactivity has fallen by over a quarter of a million since the pandemic peak.
“Growing the economy is our priority. That’s why we are bearing down on inflation and bringing in the next generation of welfare reforms to drive down inactivity and help more people into work.”
