Unemployment still on the up – latest figures

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) rose last month across the district – as the unemployment rate continues to soar nationally.

In Dewsbury and Mirfield, the number of people claiming JSA totalled 2,901 in February, with male claimants accounting for nearly two thirds of the figure.

Claims amongst 18 to 24-year-olds reached 1,065, with a further 1,440 claims made by the largest demographic of the 25 to 49-year-olds.

The over 50s accounted for 385 claims over the same period.

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In Batley and Spen, the total figure was even larger, with 3,298 claims made – 2,227 by men and 1,071 by women.

Cleckheaton jobseekers made 448 claims, while those in Heckmondwike made 455.

Batley East, around Healey, Carlinghow and Staincliffe, had 792 claims.

People in Dewsbury West electoral ward – comprising Ravensthorpe, Scout Hill and Dewsbury Moor – accounted for 838 claims. There were 712 claims in Dewsbury West, around Chickenley and Earlsheaton.

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However, it is the younger jobseekers – especially those who are not in education or training – that prove most worrying.

In almost all areas, the number of youngsters signing on has gradually increased over the last three years.

The figure for Dewsbury and Mirfield rose by 1.7 per cent between January and February. Likewise, in Batley and Spen, the number of young job seekers rose to its highest point since September 2008.

Overall. the figures from the Office of National Statistics shows that the bulk of those claiming JSA have been doing so for less than a year.

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However, jobs are being advertised at JobCentre Plus offices in the towns.

At the Dewsbury branch, there were 414 advertised job vacancies that went unfilled last month.

Between the Batley and Liversedge offices, there were a total of 415 vacancies unfilled.