Year-on-year drop in Moray benefits claims for January
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BENEFITS claims in Moray have fallen over 20 per cent year-on-year for the month of December, new figures have revealed.
The statistics, from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) show that last month some 1430 people in the region were claiming benefits, down 380 – or 21 per cent – on the same time last year.
In the 18-24 age group there was a fall of 10 to 260, a 10 per cent drop.
The largest decrease was to be found among those aged 50 +, with 27 per cent fewer people claiming benefits, down from 500 in January 2022 to 365.
Forres-based DWP Employer and Partnership Manager Jane Munro said: "Across our jobcentres, work coaches provide every jobseeker with tailored support, helping to build confidence and develop new skills, so breaking down the barriers for those re-entering the workforce.
"The focus being for people over 50 or those who have been out of work due to ill health.
“Increasing the labour force is key activity in order to help businesses fill their vacancies. Locally we’ve been working with Johnstons of Elgin, Moray Council and Search Industrial. To support this we are holding regular jobs fairs and work academies. Meanwhile jobseekers can find their perfect match by searching our DWP Find a Job website, which has thousands of jobs on offer.
“For work coaches it’s really inspiring to see how the help they give to individual jobseekers makes a positive difference to their life.”
“Follow Moray Pathways on Facebook to keep up to date with local events."
Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP said that "huge progress" had been made in getting people back into employment.
He continued;“It’s encouraging to see that more people are moving into work, as we know that being in employment is the best way to deliver financial security, skills and confidence.
“We’ve also made huge progress for everyone looking to boost their earnings or land a new role, with the employment rate increasing and more people joining payrolls.
“Growing the economy is one of our top five priorities which will deliver more high quality jobs, boosting everyone’s prospects and prosperity.”
