Number of unemployed increases

Mar 11 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

THE number of unemployed people claiming benefits in West Lothian has risen.

The latest unemployment and Jobcentre vacancy figures for West Lothian show a fall in job vacancies – and an increase in the number of unemployed between December and January.

The number of jobless people claiming Job Seekers Allowance in January was 5217 – an increase of 493 on the December 2009 figure.

Youth unemployment among 18 to 24 year olds in West Lothian for January was 1600 – a rise of 125 on the previous month. And West Lothian's unemployment rate of 4.9 per cent is higher than both the Scottish rate of 4.5 per cent and Great Britain level of 4.3 per cent.

The figures follow last week’s announcement that up to 1000 jobs may be lost at West Lothian Council over the next three years.

However, executive councillor for development and transport, Martyn Day, said the council are playing their part in providing help and support to jobless people.

He said: “We know this is an extremely challenging time for many residents in West Lothian.

“Our jobless figures aren't surprising and are consistent with many other areas in Scotland, however, the increase in the number of people out of work is certainly disappointing.

“The increase can largely be attributed to the end of seasonal work over the Christmas period.

“West Lothian has a relatively young population overall and we know that this is a challenging time for this age group in particular.

“That's why the council are fully involved in initiatives like the Future Jobs Fund and Get Ready for work, creating additional job and training opportunities for young people.

“The council will continue to promote West Lothian as a business location and provide practical assistance to help businesses to grow and generate new jobs. In the first two months of 2010 alone, the council's Business Gateway have assisted 73 businesses to set up in West Lothian.”

West Lothian's unemployment rate ranks joint 10th highest with South Ayrshire of all Scottish local authority areas. There were 632 notified Jobcentre vacancies in West Lothian in January – a decrease of 144 from December 2009.

The ratio of jobseekers to jobcentre vacancies has increased to eight jobseekers for every vacancy advertised in West Lothian jobcentres.

But Martyn Day added that help is on its way to help local communities.

He said: “This year, we will be investing heavily in improving traditional towns across West Lothian. Linlithgow, Bathgate, Broxburn/Uphall, Livingston, Armadale and Whitburn will share nearly £3million that will aim to improve traditional town centres and rejuvenate them.

“This will hopefully encourage more local people to shop locally and also attract new visitors. By improving traditional town centres, we can help create more opportunities for local businesses to flourish, which will boost jobs.”