Jobless figures soar in Courier Country

Unemployment has soared in Tayside and Fife during lockdown, new figures have revealed.

People applying for Jobseeker’s Allowance and Universal Credit has more than doubled in Perth and Kinross since the pandemic hit.

In April, 3,600 people claimed the benefits, compared to 1,765 in the same month last year, an increase of 104%.

In Angus, unemployment was up 52.5%, compared to 38.8% in Dundee and 50.7% in Fife. The Scottish figure was up 72.9%, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.

Jamie Hepburn, the Scottish Government’s business, fair work and skills minister, said: “While these rates compare well against historical records, they do not reflect fully the unprecedented impact of the pandemic and how it will change over time.

“The Job Retention Scheme will have offered some relief to many employers and employees, but I am aware many will be deeply concerned about the future of their livelihoods.

“We are acutely aware of the huge impact the lockdown measures are having on people and businesses throughout the country.

“However, these measures are vital for controlling the coronavirus outbreak, saving lives and protecting the NHS.

“The government has already provided £2.3 billion in support to businesses and livelihoods, and will continue to do everything in our power to support employers and employees. Over the coming weeks I will work closely with the Enterprise and Skills Strategic Board and business community as we begin to set out clearly – and in detail – the package of support to be made available to individuals and businesses to restart our economy and to aid quick recovery from this crisis.”

According to ONS figures, Scotland’s economic inactivity rate sat at 22.1% for the three-month period compared to 20.2% for the whole UK.

The first case north of the border was confirmed on March 1 while businesses deemed non-essential were encouraged to close from March 16, but it was not until a week later on March 23 that the full lockdown was introduced.

Jonathan Athow, ONS deputy national statistician for economic statistics, said: “While only covering the first weeks of restrictions, our figures show Covid-19 is having a major impact on the labour market.”