Small increase in number of Moray Universal Credit claimants

THE number of people in Moray claiming Universal Credit (UC) has risen slightly, according to newly published figures.

The latest statistics published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in September there were 6354 UC claimants in the region, compared to 6339 the previous month.

The Alternative Claimant Count – those looking for work – is down year on year, with the 2157 figure recorded down 878 on the same period last year.

Ann Dowd, Employer and Partnership Manager, Moray jobcentres, said: “Over the last year our jobcentres have stepped up to support local people and businesses affected by the pandemic.

"Through Plan for Jobs we’ve recruited extra work coaches offering jobseekers individual, tailored help.

"The Kickstart scheme has been a great success. Good quality work has been provided for young people worst affected by the pandemic, with local employers, such as Gordon Lennox Estate, Moray Reach Out and Speyside Trees.

"In the new year we’ll be concentrating on recruiting for the key industries in food manufacturing, care, hospitality, and retail.

"I’d encourage jobseekers to visit Find a Job and locate their next local opportunity.”

Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said: “With the number of people on payrolls now above pre-pandemic levels across every region and age group, including the biggest monthly increase on record in November, it’s clear our Plan for Jobs is working.

“As we look ahead...we remain wholeheartedly committed to helping employers recruit for the record number of opportunities out there and to giving people – at any age and any career stage – the support and skills they need to confidently land their next role."

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack added: “[These] figures tell a positive story for Scotland, with unemployment down and the number of people on the payroll continuing to exceed pre-pandemic figures.

"Clearly, we are not yet over the pandemic, but it does suggest that our Plan for Jobs is working, helping people up and down the country find well-paid, skilled employment.

"Creating high quality jobs and ensuring recovery from the pandemic remain our top priorities. That’s why we've guaranteed record Barnett-based funding for Scotland and we're giving NHS Scotland the support it needs to help tackle Covid."

In Moray the DWP are currently advertising 199 jobs vacancies on Findajob and others on the @jCPinNorthScot with vacancies for Halfords, Diageo, MOD and Parklands.

They are also currently working with Breedon for a Sector Based Work Academy Programme SWAP which gives candidates the opportunity to undertake pre-employment training, work experience and a guaranteed interview with the employer.

Interview days have been arranged for all new Kickstart vacancies at employer premises over the last month. These events have been well received by both the employer and the candidates, as it gives the candidates the opportunity to visit the employer premises and find out more about the Kickstart job they are applying for.

A total of 23 interview sessions have been since the start of November. This has resulted in 19 starts so far.