Unemployment rises in Exeter

Unemployment has risen in Exeter and Devon last month despite the national improvements in the job market, data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has shown today.

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Devon grew by 393 to 7,060 in January while 81 more claimants brouht the total to 1,470 in Exeter alone.

Overall the South West saw an extra 3,000 people become unemployed bringing the total number 177,000 and marking the second month of increased unemployment in the region.

However the region remains as one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the country and has made equivalent gains in the numbers of employed people

In the report released today, the ONS cautions that: “Regional figures for the unemployment rate are quite volatile, which needs to be allowed for when considering the pattern of change over time.

"There are a number of regions where the employment rate is quite high compared with historical levels. Generally these high employment rates are being matched by historically low levels of
economic inactivity. This means that despite the high employment rates, unemployment rates are yet to return to the levels they were prior to the recession.

"This effect is particularly noticeable in regions that historically have the highest inactivity rates."

Currently the South West’s unemployment rate is 6.5% still well below the national average of 7.2%, while its employment rate of 74.6% remains as one of the highest nationally.

Moreover the number of employed people grew by 3,000 in the same time period suggesting a rise in the number of people entering the job market during the measured period.

Nationally the number of unemployed people fell 125,000 in the last three months, with the number of people who were long-term unemployed also falling by 45,000.

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance has also fallen for the 15th consecutive month.

Employment Minister Esther McVey said: “With employment continuing to increase, it’s clear that the Government’s long-term plan to build a stronger, more secure economy is helping businesses create jobs and get people into work.

“Record numbers of women are in work and youth unemployment continues to fall, which means more people have the security of a regular wage and can plan for their future."