County unemployment rate is twice average

New figures released today by Derbyshire County Council show that the unemployment rate for under 25 year olds in the county is around twice the average. And the rate is also higher than the England average.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Economy and Transport, Councillor Joan Dixon said: “Youth employment is continuing to be a real problem across the country and here in Derbyshire.

“The Coalition Government is not doing enough for young people. Many are facing an uncertain future and without a decent job are unable to even think of a home of their own.

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“The council wants to build a strong economy that creates jobs, grows business and provides a future for our young people. We are doing what we can – this year the council is providing 80 apprentice positions for young people.

In July 2013 there were 3,825 people aged under 25 who were claiming job seekers allowance in Derbyshire. A third (30.5%) of all unemployed people in Derbyshire are aged under 25, which is higher than the England average of 26.2%.

The numbers of young people out of work is highest in Chesterfield (34.4%), South Derbyshire (31.8%), and Bolsover (31.3%). Derbyshire Dales has the lowest rate (21.3%), which is the only district in Derbyshire that is below the national average.

In Derbyshire unemployment is more common among young people. In July 2013 the unemployment rate for under 25 year olds was 4.9%, which is almost double the working age rate of 2.6%. The national average is 4.8%. Rates vary across the county. Chesterfield is 7.5%, Bolsover 6%, Erewash 5.8%, North East Derbyshire 5.3%, High Peak 4%, Amber Valley 4.1%, South Derbyshire 3.6% and Derbyshire Dales 2%.

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The figures show that the numbers claiming job seekers allowance in Derbyshire has fallen by 19.6% since July 2012 (15,615 in July 2012 to 12,550 in July 2013). And that over the last year all districts across Derbyshire have seen a fall in the unemployment rate greater than the England average.

A full report detailing the unemployment rates in Derbyshire for July 2013 is at http://observatory.derbyshire.gov.uk/IAS/news/item?itemId=43