Improving jobs figures ahead of UC roll-out

Employment across East Kilbride and Avondale was on the rise ahead of the rollout of Universal Credit, according to the latest figures.

Between August and September there was a monthly drop of 14 per cent and annually there was a decrease of 11 per cent.

Positive news was also reported in Avondale with a 14 per cent month-on-month decline in claimants – and a 15 per cent reduction annually.

The controversial Universal Credit system, which sees one single payment replace up to six benefits, was rolled out at the beginning of October.

It’s a scheme which has been widely criticised with East Kilbride Citizens’Advice Bureau saying families could be plunged“further into poverty”.

But a spokeswoman for the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) said the new system would offer“unprecedented support”to claimants.

“While the majority of people are comfortable managing their money,”she said,“advances are available for anyone who needs extra help and arrangements can be made to pay rent direct to landlords.

“Meanwhile, the Scottish Government has significant welfare powers including flexibility over Universal Credit payments.”

Locally, the DWP expect a boost in employment with the transformation of part of the Plaza Tower into a hotel.

A 102-bedroom hotel in the heart of East Kilbride was given the green light by South Lanarkshire councillors in September.

Additionally, they hope three new shops within the Plaza – which include Tim Hortons and The Entertainer – could help more people find work.