UNEMPLOYMENT has fallen slightly since last month, but more people are out of work compared to this time last year, latest figures reveal.

During September, 1,035 people in Worcester claimed unemployment benefit, down from August’s total of 1,055.

However, the latest government figures show 25 more people are out of work compared to September 2015.

The number of out-of-work people aged 18 to 24 has risen once again, from 270 in August to 280 in September. And compared with last year, the numbers of unemployed young people has risen by eight per cent.

But John Rodway, from Jobcentre Plus, says a number of new projects, developments and activities taking place in Worcester will help boost employment.

“We are really pleased with the figures,” he said. “When you compare it to other constituencies the figures are really encouraging. It is really, really buoyant in Worcester at the moment.”

Mr Rodway says a new partnership between Jobcentre Plus, Heart of Worcestershire College and CrownGate shopping centre will hopefully see more people taking on hospitality and cleaning roles, while businesses are starting to advertise for staff to help during the busy Christmas period. Meanwhile, the Worcester Jobcentre is supporting a campaign to find 50 employees to staff the city’s new B&M store, which opens in November.

“The broader picture is really good,” Mr Rodway added. “The [national] employment rate is still a record 74.5 per cent.”

In the Malvern Hills District, 445 people claimed unemployment benefit in September - an increase of 55 compared to the same month last year. The number of 18 to 24-year-old claimants stands at 135, an increase of 25 compared to the same time last year.

Unemployment has dropped slightly in Wychavon with the overall claimant count standing at 635, compared with 640 this time last year. A total of 140 people aged 18 to 24 claimed unemployment benefit in September, compared with 160 last year.

Employment Minister Damian Hinds said: “Once again it’s great news for Britain as the employment rate remains at a record high with more than 31.8 million men and women in work.

“It’s good news in the West Midlands where there’s a near record of 2.7 million people in work. But there’s more to do, particularly when it comes to supporting young people into employment.

“We want to build a solid base for the future, that’s why I have announced the roll out of our Jobcentre Plus Support for Schools scheme in England which will give young people help in taking their first steps into work.”