It's official: Exeter has lowest unemployment levels since records began
Job Seeker Allowance (JSA) figures released on 18 January show that Exeter has the lowest levels of unemployment since current records began in 1992.
This allowance is payable to people under pensionable age who are available for, and actively seeking, work of at least 40 hours a week.
Figures for the Exeter Local Authority’s region in December 2015 when compared to equivalent figures in December 2014 and December 2005 show how things have changed in the city in the last year and in the last 10 years:
Total JSA Claimants
December 2015
Exeter 664 (0.8%)
SW 0.9%. Great Britain 1.5%
December 2014
Exeter 752 (0.9%)
SW 1.2%. Great Britain 1.9%
December 2005
Exeter 1,048 (1.4%)
SW 1.3%. Great Britain 2.3%
% is a proportion of resident population of area aged 16-64. More information at https://www.nomisweb.co.uk
Cllr Rosie Denham, Lead Councillor for Economy & Culture, said: “This is good news for Exeter. The Job Seekers Allowance claimant count does not include those looking for work who are not entitled to or choose not to claim this out of work benefit.
"However, the figures do point to an overall improvement in Exeter’s economic situation and it is great to see that the city is moving towards almost full employment.
"We are committed to continuing our work with the Exeter & Heart of Devon Employment and Skills Board to build a world-class workforce with the skills that local employers need."
Andrew McNeilly, Manager of the Guildhall Shopping Centre and Exeter Chamber Director and Vice Chairman, said: “Obviously, from an economic perspective, it is good news that Exeter has a low level of unemployment to the extent that now there are currently more jobs available than people looking for work. However, there is a downside in that those businesses who are looking to open new premises in Exeter or to expand existing premises will find it more challenging to fill vacant posts.
"Guildhall Dining plans to open at least eight new quality restaurants before the end of the year and will be looking for frontline staff with excellent skills. This will be a challenge but I still see the low unemployment figures as positive news as, for the first time, employees will have the upper hand and the opportunity to be selective. They will be looking for employment in businesses where their skills are valued so this will drive standards up. For the end customer, this can only be a good thing.”
Gerry Shattock, of Exeter Science Park, said: “This is good news for Exeter and for the wider area as the city strives to build an engine for economic growth across a range of sectors.”
