Jobless stats on the rise

Downward trend

Unemployment figures in Monklands have once again risen compared with the same time period last year.

A total of 2130 residents of Airdrie & Shotts claimed jobseekers’ allowance in October – up 625 on 2017’s statistics, but a 20 per cent drop on figures released in 2012.

The Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill ward saw 2085 unemployed residents last month; this was a rise of 565 from 2017.

The labour market figures also revealed the number of jobseekers across North Lanarkshire in October was 7785 – up 2135 on last year and a 15 per cent decrease on 2012’s statistics.

Within the 18- to- 24 age bracket, 465 people claimed jobseekers allowance in Airdrie & Shotts last month – up 130 on 2017 during the same time period – and 415 in Coatbridge, Bellshill & Chryston; a rise of 100 on last year’s figures.

The employment level in Scotland has risen by 199,000 since 2010 to around 2.64 million.

Responding to worries relating to the Universal Credit social security payment, a Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: “We have listened to concerns about Universal Credit delivery and funding and, in response, have announced a £ 4.5 billion cash boost.

“We will be increasing the amount people can earn on Universal Credit by £ 1000 before their payment begins to be reduced, and providing a ‘run on’, worth on average £ 200, to any claimants moving onto the system to ensure a smooth transition for them.”