Local Unemployment Rate Continues to Soar

Figures released this month by the Office for National Statistics show that unemployment across North Warwickshire continues to soar, with the number claiming Jobseekers Allowance in the area doubling in just a year.

Nationally the rate of unemployment increase has slowed slightly, but with a rise of 88,000 from last quarter unemployment is still one of the number one problems affecting the country.

Ex-soldier and Parliamentary Candidate Dan Byles has been monitoring rising local unemployment rates with concern, and had this to say as the latest figures were released:

“While I am cautiously glad that the growth in unemployment appears to be slowing, I am still deeply concerned that North Warwickshire is one of the worst affected parts of the country when it comes to job losses.

“There were almost twice as many job seekers in North Warwickshire last month as there were a year ago. That’s over 1,300 people who have had their livelihood taken away and their families’ lives turned upside down. These aren’t just numbers on a page – these are real people who have been devastated by unemployment.

“But in the Jobcentre Plus there are only 569 vacancies. That’s 5 claimants for every vacancy.

“With unemployment nationally creeping towards the 3 million mark, Labour have once again shown themselves to be the Party of unemployment. They always leave office with unemployment higher than when they entered. Right now, one in five young people can’t find a job.

“I left the Army to come into politics because I love my country and I care about people. I was fed up with politicians who care more about their expense claims and their second homes than they do about ordinary people.

“It’s time for some hard headed truths. It’s time for politicians to be honest with people about the problems we face and how they need to be dealt with. It’s time for change.”