Chesterfield Enjoys More Good News on Jobs

Unemployment has fallen, the number of people in employment has increased and there are fewer people claiming out of work benefits now than a year ago, according to new figures released today.

The Office for National Statistics’ latest regional employment statistics showed that in the last three months of 2014, there were 36,593 more people in employment across the East Midlands than in the previous three months, while the total number of unemployed fell by 17,487 in the same period.

In the East Midlands, employment stood at 74.5% compared with 73.2% nationally according to today’s figures. Unemployment stood at 5% for the region compared to 5.7% nationally.

In Chesterfield there was a small increase in the number of people claiming the out of work benefit with many temporary seasonal contracts coming to an end (1,480 in January compared to 1,385 in December). However this figure is 564 lower than that announced in January 2014 (2,044).

The East Midlands Chamber, which represents businesses across the three counties, has welcomed the good news on jobs.

Chamber Chief Executive George Cowcher said: “There is usually a seasonal spike in JSA Claimants in January and February each year as temporary employment contracts come to an end after the Christmas period, but that aside, today’s figures were again very positive.

“There are now more people in work and fewer people unemployed and claiming out of work benefits now than a year ago, which highlights how much progress the economy has made over the past 12 months.

“It’s also positive to see that wage growth is now outstripping inflation. A focus on improving productivity from businesses will ensure this is sustainable.”