Bexley dole queues down 2.7%

PUBLISHED: 11:53 20 January 2016 | UPDATED: 11:53 20 January 2016

Tom Pyman

Man applying for a job on the internet

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There is a decrease in the number of Bexley residents applying for job seekers’ allowance, according to the latest figures.

Statistics compiled by the Office for National Statistics showed that there was a reducton of 57 people (2.7 per cent) signing on between September and November 2015.

Sarah Hernandez of Jobcentre Plus said: “Things have started to plateau on the back of significant redcutions over the last two years, but there is still a fall in Bexley.

“You expect a bit of an increase in January as temporary work comes to an end and that will probably be reflected in the next figures.”

Bromley also this week introduced universal credit, a scheme which aims to make it easier for people claiming benefits to move into work.

Nationally and across London, though, the picture was bright, with UK employment rate hitting a record high while unemployment plummeted to pre-recession levels

DWP employment minister, Priti Patel, said: “This is a record-breaking set of figures – and has got 2016 off to a fantastic start.

“There are now more people in work than ever before and wages are growing consistently – a credit to hardworking Brits and businesses alike.

“And in a further demonstration of the strength of the UK labour market today’s figures show a record three quarters of a million vacancies available.

“Since 2010, London’s employment rate has seen the largest rise of any UK region.

“As a One Nation Government we will build on this throughout the coming year – doubling childcare for working parents and introducing the new National Living Wage – ensuring that everyone has increased financial security and the opportunity to get on and succeed in life.”