THE NUMBER of Silhillians claiming Universal Credit has fallen by almost 30 per cent in the past year.
Figures released by Team at National Statistics show there are 4,070 claimant across the borough and that figure has dropped by 1,500 people – 27 per cent.
This comes as Solihull and Chemsley Wood Job Centres say its teams are helping employers fill their seasonal and permanent vacancies and supporting claimants to take part in programmes and sessions to help boost their chances of securing a job.
Hannah Keeler, from Solihull Jobcentre said: “Jobcentre work coaches are busy focussing on helping employers fill their seasonal and permanent vacancies in a wide range of sectors including hospitality and retail.
“The changes to Universal Credit and the older workers’ offer means we can help even more claimants receive intensive support, to help them get into work and seize opportunities to increase their job prospects and pay.
“Our Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Find a Job website, signposts people to jobs, where thousands of jobs are on offer.”
Solihull Job Centre said it has worked with B&M to fill 120 vacancies in their new store opening in Shirley at the end of November.
The site held group sessions for candidates throughout Birmingham and Solihull which then lead into support with applications and Interviews set up with the hiring managers.
The remaining vacancies available will be supported via the DWP sector based work academy programmes.
The Team at Chelmsley Wood Job Centre are continuing to put on events including an Airport Recruitment Day.
Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP said: “Whilst these figures are encouraging, we recognise that families are facing rising prices and employers need support to fill vacancies with a reliable workforce.
“Our focus is on making sure people looking for work, and those already in work, have the opportunity to boost their skills and keep more of what they earn – helped by our extensive network of Jobcentres.
“Our priority will always be to support the most vulnerable and we recognise that people are struggling with rising prices, which is why we are protecting millions of those most in need with at least £1,200 of direct payments.”
