Young people in Banbury who are in employment or full-time education '˜near record high'

The Labour Market figures were released last Wednesday and shows that employment continues to increase, with the unemployment figure down 21 per cent compared to last year.

James MacNaughton, job centre manager in Banbury, said: “The latest labour market figures continue to show good news, with the employment rate at a record high – 74.1 per cent, and more than 450,000 more people in work than this time last year. The proportion of young people who are in work or full-time education is at a near record high, at 85.7 per cent.

“The claimant count has fallen to its lowest level since 1975, and we also have good news for Banbury, as there are 110 fewer claimants than a year ago, and over 1,200 less than 2010.”

And Mr MacNaughton added the increase of companies using apprenticeship schemes coupled with job fairs in around the country means it is easier for people to find more opportunities in getting work and establishing a career path.

He said: “Getting young people into work is a priority of the Jobcentre. Amongst other support, we offer 18-24 year old claimants work experience with local employers including the Jobcentre, traineeships and sector based work academies (SBWA), which offer guaranteed interviews.

“We are having great a success with the new Tesco SBWA for example, and have had five people from Banbury and three from Oxford start work this week. It’s really rewarding to note that our 18-24 claimants continue to fall in numbers, we have nearly 80 per cent less young persons claiming now than in 2010.”

“We also continue to have great success with jobs fairs. These aren’t just for persons out of work and are attended by person maybe looking to advance their career or change sector. There were 22 employers and partner organisations at the Banbury Job Fair held in the town hall, and more than 170 visitors.”

The next job fair takes place on Wednesday, March 30 from 10.30am to 2pm at the John Paul Centre in Bicester. Entry is free.

For more information or to book a stand call 01295 221863 or email [email protected]