Are you worried about your job?

ALTHOUGH Wokingham remains relatively less affected compared to most of the country, there is no doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns have had a significant impact on the

UK economy.

Over time this will also have implications for jobs in the local area.

According to the latest figures from Wokingham Borough Council, the national unemployment rate is estimated at 5.1%, 1.3% higher than a year ago. The level of GDP in the UK is 7.8% below its quarter four, 2019 level. It is estimated that 11.4 million people remained furloughed in March.

On top of this there is the, as yet unclear, impact of Brexit to contend with.

Wokingham has, in the main, proved fairly resilient throughout the pandemic – largely because a high proportion of residents are employed in roles adaptable to home working. However, as at the end of December (in comparison to the figures for December 2019) the Borough Council reported:

A 227% overall increase in people claiming unemployment benefits

A 312% in young people (18-24) claiming benefits (the hardest hit group)

The over 50s age group has seen a 265% increase in claimants.

Although these figures are understated – largely because many unemployed (and underemployed) people do not register, and are, therefore, not included in any statistics. Young people are often supported by their parents; older people by their savings.

The ever-changing furlough policy has also distorted the figures, as has the fact that many selfemployed workers, despite seeing their income dramatically slashed, are ineligible to claim benefits.

Demand and employment have fallen considerably in sectors such as retail, aviation, hospitality, tourism, support services, arts, entertainment and recreation.

The full extent of the impact of Covid-19 on the economy in Berkshire is not yet known, but there are clear indications that young people, women and low skilled workers will be disproportionately affected.

With this backdrop, an increasing number of people are looking for work.

However, job seekers are finding that the art of job hunting in a Covid world has changed significantly – with the process mostly moving online. But no one should feel daunted by such a development.

If you’re worried about your job, or just looking for another one, Wokingham Job Support Centre, a free community service supporting job seekers in the borough, is on hand to help.

WJSC provides a blend of coaching, advice, support and skills development for local job seekers, including one-to-one sessions, CV writing, practise Zoom interviews, internet help and general guidance on how to be successful in today’s employment market.

Periodically WJSC runs workshops covering over50s, social media and working for yourself.

Over the coming weeks, I will share my top tips for online interviews and writing CVs, discuss the importance of social media and much more.

Until next week, good luck with your job hunting.