More people in work across Rotherham, figures show

Official unemployment figures from the Office for National Statistics showed the number of people who claimed Jobseeker’s Allowance or Universal Credit across the borough — which includes Maltby, Dinnington and Mexborough — fell to 3,945 in May.

There was also a big drop in the number of people aged 18 to 24 out of work, with 860 claiming unemployment benefits last month — a drop of 200 compared to May 2015.

Nationally, the employment rate stands at 74.2 per cent, the highest total since 1971.

Nigel Coleman, employer account manager at Jobcentre Plus, said: “These are brilliant figures and there is much buoyancy at the moment.

“I know there are some scary stories out there at the moment but that will always happen.

“The retail sector is actually particularly buoyant and the Meadowhall expansion is a big draw for recruitment.”

Mr Coleman said Capita is also looking to fill 1,200 jobs in the next three months at its call centre on Manvers.

He added: “We are seeing lots of positive news from the figures, which is brilliant. I have been doing this for two years now and, I am crossing my fingers and touching wood when I say this, but the figures have fallen every month.

“Youth unemployment has also fallen by 66 per cent since 2010 which is fantastic.”

Stephen Crabb, secretary of state for work and pensions, said: “Secure employment and a decent wage are key to transforming the life chances of people across the country, so I’m delighted to see another strong set of figures this month.

“There are more people in work than ever before and wages are continuing their upward climb. There’s really good news in Yorkshire and the Humber, where the number of people in work is at a record high of 2.52 million, with a rise of 32,000 in the last year.”