UNEMPLOYMENT in Southampton is substantially down on last year as the country heads into recession.

There were 6,695 people unemployed and claiming benefits in the Southampton City Council area in October, down 24 per cent on last year.

But the figure was up 88 per cent on five years ago and 39 per cent higher than in 2010.

The figures show unemployment among young people dropping over the long term. The number of 18-24 year-olds in the Southampton Council area stood at 1,140, down 21 per cent on last year. Although the figure was up 75 per cent over five years, it was down 16 per cent since 2010.

The Bank of England expects a two-year recession in which unemployment nationally will almost double.

Employment minister Guy Opperman said: “The UK labour market has remained resilient in the face of global challenges, with a low unemployment rate and a record number of people on payrolls.

“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.”

David McArthur, Jobcentre Plus partnership manager in Hampshire and Dorset, said; “The good news is that there are always positive events going on at your local Jobcentre Plus office to support your job search or for you to take that next stepping stone to employment.”

Jobcentre work coaches recently held a recruitment day for 50-plus, with employers including Sainsbury’s, Poundland, Cambian and Wessex Laundry.

A Disability Confident Jobs Fair is held today, Tuesday, November 29, 10am-1pm, with employers including Liveability, Alina Homecare and Autism Unlimited.

Mr McArthur said: “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 DWP Find a Job website signposts people to where thousands of jobs are on offer.”