Jobless figures have soared over lockdown
Employment in Renfrewshire hit hard by pandemic
The Renfrewshire dole queue has soared by 75 per cent during lockdown.
The employment situation has become even worse for those aged 18-24 – with a near doubling of people seeking work.
Figures from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) show the rises in Renfrewshire are on a par with the overall Scottish increase.
But it means 6,736 people were on the dole in April, rising from 3,852 exactly a year ago.
In the younger group, there are now 93 per cent more out of work.
The grim figure shows 1,247 are jobless, up 93 per cent from just 647.
Universal Credit claims have also risen 1.2 per cent on March, with 15,665 now receiving the benefit.
Joanne Gallacher, the DWP’s employer and partnership manager for Renfrewshire, said everything possible was being done to help as restrictions ease.
And multiple roles are expected in hospitality.
She said: “Our Jobcentre work coaches are working hard and as part of the Government’s overall Plan for Jobs we have a number of programmes.
“Job Finding Support is for those unemployed under 13 weeks and Job Entry Targeted Support for those unemployed over 13 weeks.
“And Kickstart is a £2billion fund which creates paid, six- month work placements for over 200,000 young people who might be at risk of long-term unemployment.
“Locally we have current opportunities within Renfrewshire
Council, hospitality, social care, retail, administration and environmental.”
“We are also expecting vacancies within the Royal Alexandra Hospital.”
W h i l e R e n f re w s h i re’s unemployment has risen by 75 per cent to 6,736 in the year April to April, Scotland’s rate jumped 83 per cent to 205,296.
The under-24s were up 94 per cent, one per cent greater than Renfrewshire’s.
Invest in Renfrewshire are delivering Work Academy Programmes to help people prepare for a job.
Joanne added: “I would also encourage young people in receipt of Universal Credit to keep in touch with their Jobcentre work coach so they are always aware of the current opportunities.”
I would encourage young people to keep in touch with their Jobcentre work coach