Derbyshire and Notts: Unemployment figures fall again

The number of unemployed people in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire decreased again.
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Guardian News

The amount of people claiming Job Seekers Allowance went down by 220 in Derbyshire between June and July of this year. The figure decreased by 167 in Nottinghamshire.

George Cowcher, chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, said: “Statistics are once again encouraging and show the positive effects that the strengthening economy is having on the wider labour market.”

“Headline rates of unemployment and claimants of Jobseeker’s Allowance are closing in on pre-recession levels, which highlights just how strong and flexible the local labour market is at present.”

In comparison to July last year, 3,898 fewer people are claiming JSA in Derbyshire and 4,247 less in Nottinghamshire.

Mr Cowcher added: “Anecdotal evidence from businesses across a range of sectors shows confidence is rising, which is being reflected by increases in staffing levels at many local companies.”

However, despite the positive data, he still feels that more needs to be done to help the unemployed.

He said: “The economy is progressing well, but in order to strengthen it further, policymakers should focus more of their efforts on those who are now furthest from the labour market to allow the wider recovery to enable those prepared for work to re-engage with the workforce.”