The number of people who are unemployed in South Swindon has fallen again.
According to the latest figures released by the Office for National Statistics, 982 people claimed Job Seeker's Allowance or Universal Credit in September 2016, down from 1,033 six months ago.
The ONS also confirmed that the national rate of employment is at a record high of 74.5%. Stats revealed that there are now 31.8 million people in work, up by more than 560,000 since last year.
The rise in employment continues to be driven by full-time work. Average wages (including bonuses) have risen 2.3% over the last twelve months, and the claimant count nearly reached 2.3% at its peak - something we haven't seen since 1975.
Labour market statistics also show that the female employment rate currently sits at 69.7%, which is near to the recent record high of 69.8% achieved in May - June 2016. The youth unemployment figure has dropped by more than 300,000 since 2010.
Employment Minister, Damian Hinds, said: ‘’Once again it’s great news for Britain as the employment rate remains at a record high with more than 31.8 million men and women in work.
“But there’s more to do, particularly when it comes to supporting young people into employment. We want to build a solid base for the future, that’s why today I have announced the roll out of our Jobcentre Plus Support for Schools scheme in England which will give tens of thousands of young people help in taking their first steps into the world of work.’’
Robert Buckland MP welcomed the ONS figures, and said: “In South Swindon, the number of people claiming out of work benefits has fallen dramatically since the Conservatives came to power in 2010.
"We have seen increased growth, wages up, as well as the introduction of a new national living wage. The number of people in work is also at an all-time high, which is great news.
“The fact that we have seen such a large fall in unemployment in our town since 2010 is proof that we are on the right track.”