THE number of people searching for work in Bradford has increased in the last year.

Latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show a total of 23,560 individuals were looking for employment last month - up eight per cent year-on-year.

The data includes those on Jobseekers' Allowance and people who are searching for work on Universal Credit.

A DWP spokesperson said: "While figures show that there has been a rise in the claimant count in Bradford, Jobcentre work coaches are working hard to help employers fill their vacancies and support people, whatever their situation.

"Job seekers can search our DWP 'find a job' website to check out the thousands of jobs on offer.

"Helping more people get ready to enter the jobs market by providing every job seeker with the support that suits their individual needs is a vital part of this.

"Importantly, for those on Universal Credit, people keep more of what they earn, while parents can receive increased childcare payments."