THE number of people claiming unemployment benefit and universal credit in Barnsley was 4,840 in March, latest monthly figures show.
The figure was four per cent up on the previous month, and 34 per cent up on the same month last year, but 39 per cent down when compared to the same month five years ago.
The figure for those aged 18 to 24 claiming the same benefits is now 995, which is a seven per cent increase on the month before, a 25 per cent increase from the same month last year, but a 59 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.
