UNEMPLOYMENT across Bradford has fallen slightly according to new figures.

The data from the Office for National Statistics shows that there were 22,310 people claiming out-of-work benefits in Bradford in May.

This is a drop of 385 people on the previous month, bringing the figure back to a similar level to March.

The claimant count rate also dropped back to 6.6 per cent, which compares to a rate of 4.1 regionally and 3.7 per cent nationally.

Compared to a year ago, the number of people on out-of-work benefits has fallen by 3.9 per cent and a rate of 6.8 per cent.

Tracy Othen, partnership manager for the Department for Work and Pensions in Bradford, said that work coaches are working hard to ensure jobseekers know they can benefit from the amount of support available.

“During the busy summer season, jobcentres are focussed on working with employers to increase the supply of new workers to help fill their vacancies across a wide range of sectors.”

She said a successful recruitment event held last month saw 400 claimants and 15 employers attending, with 24 job offers made on the day.

A Jobs Fair will be held in Keighley Jobcentre on June 28, with up to 20 employers set to attend.