THERE are 85 more young people unemployed in Shropshire in June 2023 than at the same time 12 months earlier.

Yearly figures published this week by the Department of Work and Pensions show that overall there are 85 fewer claimants for Universal Credit, and 190 fewer claimants over the age of 50.

However, there are 85 more people aged between 18-24 –­ a 13 per cent rise – than in June 2022.

A Spokesman for DWP Shropshire welcomed the overall drop in claimants for Universal Credit.

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They said: “The claimant count figures released today show a year-on-year reduction in those who are claiming unemployment benefits and looking for work, in both the Shropshire and Telford boroughs.

“As of June 2023, Shropshire saw a reduction of 85 people on the claimant count when compared to the previous year.

“Telford saw a reduction of 120 people on the claimant count for the same period.

“There were also further falls in the number of claimants in the 50-plus age groups across the region.

“Improving jobseeker prospects will help to achieve the government’s priority to grow the economy.

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“Work coaches are playing a crucial role to support jobseekers develop their full potential by encouraging them to review their skill and abilities, while identifying barriers to starting, or progressing in world of work.

“Importantly, specialist support is available for those aged 50-plus, or with a health condition, so they remain connected with opportunities, and for parents on Universal Credit, there are now increased childcare payments.”

Minister for Employment Guy Opperman said: “It’s encouraging to see inactivity falling, vacancies dropping, and employment on the up.

“To get prices down and help make mortgages manageable, we must halve inflation and grow our economy.”