Office for National Statistics show another rise in employment and a fall in overall unemployment. The figures indicate that the economy is recovering, with over half a million more people in private sector jobs compared to this time last year.
The number of unemployed 16-24-year-olds not in full time education fell by 71,000, the third consecutive quarterly fall, to reach 618,000 – the lowest level since January 2009. In total there are now 895,000 young people classed as unemployed, including students looking for a job.
Ministers are clear that while these figures are promising they are cautious about the monthly rise in the number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA). A significant part of the rise can be attributed to lone parents and incapacity benefit claimants moving from their existing benefit onto JSA.
Employment Minister Chris Grayling said:
“This is another encouraging set of figures and a very welcome drop in unemployment. It’s also good news that employment is going in the right direction with half a million more people in private sector jobs compared to this time last year. The fall in the number of unemployed young people also means that the total is now lower than it was before the general election.
“However, we still face a challenge to help more of the long term unemployed into work. Last week I announced that the new Work Programme is now up and running and will provide tailored support for more people on benefits.”
Last week the Government launched its new Work Programme which gives jobseekers who need extra support the help to get back into sustained employment. Private and voluntary sector organisations are investing £581m upfront in the biggest welfare to work programme this country has ever seen to provide tailored support built around the needs of individuals. Organisations will be paid by results and allowed to develop support that really addresses the needs of jobseekers.
Chris Collins
Business Development
I am very interested in knowing how many of these jobs are casualised? That is – they were full time posts that have now been changed to one or more fractionalised posts. That would be terminal or short term that were previously full time posts.
if anyone has evidence we would be very interested to receive it!
please send to;
director@pathways21.net