Unemployment figures in South Ayrshire are down by nine per cent, new figures show.
According to the Office of National Statistics, the claimant count for those seeking employment in the area stood at 2440 in April.
That figure, which takes in all ages, is down nine per cent (235) from last year’s April figure of 2675.
But there’s been no change to the claimant count of those aged between 18 and 24. That figure remains at 390, the same figure recorded in April 2022.
There has, however, been a big drop in those aged 55 and over seeking employment.
This year’s April figure stood at 645; that’s a 19 per cent reduction in the previous year’s figure of 795.
Employer and Partnership Manager, Tracey Millar, who is based at Ayr Jobcentre, said: “As we move into Summer, jobcentres are focussing on increasing the labour force to help businesses fill their vacancies.
“We’re linking up with employers, holding regular jobs fairs and pre-employment training. Locally we’ve been working with Haven, Hansel, NHS Ayrshire & Arran and many more.
“Our work coaches provide every jobseeker with individual support, to help build confidence and develop new skills.
“We are encouraging people, whether they are single parents, young, 50-plus or have a health condition to connect with their jobcentre to re-join the work force, or progress in their career.
“Jobseekers can also check out the thousands of vacancies on offer, by searching the DWP ‘FindaJob’ website.”
Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP, said: “We’re continuing to see progress in the labour market as we take action across government to grow the economy.
“Employment is up; economic inactivity is down; and vacancies have fallen in successive quarters.
“As well as helping deliver on our priority to grow the economy, we know that being in work remains the best way for people to get on in life.
“That’s why I’m focused on matching jobseekers with roles, and businesses with a resilient and skilled workforce.
“Through partnerships with local employers, we have thousands of placements in sectors such as banking and engineering, helping people to achieve new qualifications and build rewarding careers.”
Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, said: “The unemployment rate in Scotland remains near record lows and the labour market continues to be resilient in the face of significant economic challenges.
“The UK Government is focused on halving inflation, reducing debt and growing the economy. That includes investing more than £2.2bn across Scotland through our ambitious levelling up agenda to create jobs and opportunities, and boost trade and investment.”
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