New figures show year-on-year fall in Moray benefits claims for May
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YEAR-on-year benefits claims in Moray have fallen by almost 200, newly released figures have revealed.
Latest statistics from the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions0 show that across the borad those claiming benefits in the region fell by 175 to 1345 last month compared to the same month last year, a drop of 12 per cent.
There was a small decrease in the figures for the 18-24 age group with 245 – a drop of five or two per cent - claiming
Seeing the biggest percentage decrease was the over-50 age group where the numbers fell by 22 per cent from 425 to 330.
The statistics include both those looking for work and those claiming in-work benefits.
Forres-based DWP Employer and Partnership Manager Jane Munro said: “We know that by targeting personal support to every jobseeker, people gain the confidence to develop their abilities and skills to re-join the work force, or progress in their career.
"That’s why work coaches are working hard, ensuring jobseekers know how they can benefit from the huge amount of support available. This includes financial help coming soon through increased Universal Credit childcare payments.
"Specialist support also continues to be available for those aged 50 plus, or with a health condition, so they remain connected with opportunities.
“During the busy summer season, jobcentres are focussed on working with employers to increase the supply of new workers to help fill their vacancies, especially autism and neurodiversity, we are also planning another large jobs fair for September 21.
“Jobseekers can also check out the thousands of vacancies on offer, by searching the DWP Find a Job website.”
Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, added: “It’s encouraging to see that the unemployment rate in Scotland remains near record lows and there’s resilience in the labour market.
"Global issues are still causing significant economic challenges, however.
"The UK government is investing £3.5 billion to remove barriers to work and remains committed to halving inflation, reducing debt and growing the economy, not least through investing more than £2.2 billion in Scotland through our ambitious levelling up agenda and City and Growth Deals.”
