THE latest unemployment figures show that the number of benefit claimants in Bradford has increased slightly - the first time in a year.

According to the Office for National Statistics data, there were a total of 24,360 claimants in the district in March 2022 - a rise of just 0.4 per cent or 105 people.

The rate has remained the same at 7.3 per cent, compared to 4.5 per cent regionally and 4.2 per cent nationally.

A similar rise was experienced in March last year, following by a gradual fall each month for the subsequent year.

Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP said that behind the figures, it was a "difficult time for many workers and families".

"We’re doing everything we can to help, with our Way to Work scheme which is supporting people coming through the doors of our Jobcentres to move into better paid, higher skilled work. As well as increasing the National Living and Minimum Wage all backed up by over £22 billion of targeted investment."

Locally the success of the Government's Kickstart programme has resulted in more than 2,000 young people into paid placements in Bradford and more people are being supported through a Way to work Initiative.

The district has seen a 39 per cent reduction in young people claiming unemployment related benefits in the last year compared to a year ago.

In addition jobs fairs are being held across Bradford every month with the most recent one on March 30 resulting in 47 job offers on the day.

Other support locally includes a sector-based work academy programme which provides up to six weeks training, working with an employer, and a guaranteed position at the end of that training.

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