UNEMPLOYMENT in Bradford is approaching pre-pandemic levels, according to the latest data released today.

The figures from the Office for National Statistics show that in January there were a total of 24,695 people claiming benefits in the Bradford district.

It compares to a figure of 24,675 people in April 2020 - both with a claimant count rate of 7.4 per cent.

The current rate is 4.7 per cent regionally and 4.4 per cent nationally.

It also shows that the number on unemployed in Bradford has fallen gradually from a pandemic high of 32,190 in March 2021 - a drop of 23.3 per cent.

There has also been a small decrease on the previous month, from 24,880 in December, a fall of 0.7 per cent.

Fran Innes, of the Department for Work and Pensions in Bradford, told the Telegraph & Argus: "Currently in Bradford we have been thrilled to be welcoming so many employers through our doors who want to support local residents back into work. "As we emerge from Covid we want to do all we can to support people returning to work as quickly as possible. We have a wide range of activities and training opportunities to support Bradford residents return to employment."

She added that the new city centre location in Centenary Square for a local Youth Hub means they will be able to reach out to more young people in the future.

There is also an adult social care event on Wednesday, February 16, at the Aldermanbury House jobcentre in the city centre, and a jobs fair on February 18 at Eastbrook Court jobcentre at Vicar Lane.