Moray bucks the national trend on benefits claims

THERE has been a small fall in the number of people claiming benefits in Moray, newly released figures have shown.

Year-on-year claimant statistics from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) have revealed that some 70 fewer people in the region – down 70 to 1325 – were claiming benefits in August compared to the same month is 2022.

There was no change in the 18-24 age grouping, which remained constant at 250, while the downward trend in the 50+ bracket continued, with a 16 per cent drop was recording with claimant numbers falling from 375 to 315.

The figures also show Moray performing better on average than Scotland as a whole, with the overall claimant count of 110,685 representing a drop of 2120 or two per cent. Meanwhile, claims made by 18-24-year-olds nationally rose by 650 – three per cent – to 20,170. An per cent decrease among 50 age group claimants was recorded, down 2085 to 24,680.

The claimants figures include both those looking for work and those receiving in-work benefits.

Jane Munro, spokesperson for Moray Jobcentres, said: "This week’s employment statistics highlight the great work being done by work coaches across Moray.

"The Moray Jobcentres are hosting a full range of activity, including a jobs fair on Thursday, September 21 between 4.30pm and 6.30pm with over 35 employers attending UHI Moray – please pop along and see what vacancies are on offer. You can find all the information on Eventbrite.

"Jobcentres have a wraparound service as customers with health issues can be access specialist support through a disability employment adviser.

“Unlocking the skills and abilities of jobseekers, improves their employment prospects, and helps achieve the government’s priority to grow the economy. Key to this is the individual specialist support from our team of work coaches, who ensures that everyone gets the help they need, whether they are leaving education, are 50+, or have a health condition. This crucial support enables jobseekers to develop their full potential.

“Identifying barriers to starting and progressing in world of work is a key aspect of the work coach role, so that people can make the most of the help available. Importantly job seeking parents on Universal Credit, can now get extra financial help through increased childcare payments.

“Locally we are working hard with to support employers fill their vacancies, and supporting jobseekers find work with a range of employers attending each Jobcentre across Moray to hold interviews.

“Jobseekers can also check out the thousands of vacancies on offer, by searching the DWP FindaJob website or follow Moray Works on Facebook."

The government has announced the launch of a consultation on changes to the Work Capability Assessment to help people maximise their potential and ensure every who can benefits from the opportunities work can bring, both for their finances and personal health.

The childcare costs parents on Universal Credit can claim back has been raised by around 50 per cent, up to £950 a month for a single child and £1629 for two children.

The moves are part of a £3.5 billion package to boost workforce participation and grow the economy, including £2 billion of targeted support for people with long-term illnesses and disabilities.

Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP commented: “This government’s record on employment is clear; there are one million fewer workless households than in 2010 and the number of people on company payrolls is a near record high.

"But we are not complacent about the challenges we face, which is why we remain focused on removing barriers to help people find and succeed in work.

“Our £3.5 billion package to deliver more tailored job support combined with our expanded childcare offer will help unlock individuals’ potential and grow the economy.”

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack added: “Even in the face of global challenges, Scotland’s job market has remained resilient.

"Since 2010, the number of people in work in Scotland has increased by over 200,000. But we know there is more to do to help people find and succeed in fulfilling jobs.

“Our £3.5 billion package will remove barriers to work, including by delivering more tailored job support, raising the amount that can be claimed for childcare by those on Universal Credit, and expanding the Midlife MOT to help upskill over-50s. Taken together, this will help to unlock employability potential, delivering on our promise to grow the economy and halve inflation.”