THE number of people claiming unemployment benefit and universal credit in Barnsley was 5,105 in May, latest monthly figures show.
The figure was a 4.2 per cent drop on the previous month. It was a 43 per cent increase on the same month last year, but a 33 per cent drop when compared to the same month five years ago.
The figure for those aged 18 to 24 claiming the same benefits is now 1,080, which is a one per cent decrease on the month before, a 38 per cent increase from the same month last year, but a 53 per cent fall compared to five years ago.
Changes to the benefit system and the way figures are recorded mean some of those included in the figure will be in work but claiming universal credit - including those previously on housing benefit or tax credits.
Nigel Coleman from Jobcentre Plus said: “Recruitment is still very strong in the Barnsley area. Premier Foods at Carlton has had an open event this week, and there’s been a big jobs fair at Swinton.
“Asos is recruiting for 500-plus jobs.”
A disability jobs fair is to be held at Barnsley Town Hall on Thursday June 28 from noon until 2pm, with representatives from employers including South Yorkshire Police, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, the NHS, Barnsley Council, Berneslai Homes and Barnsley College.
