Monthly jobseekers claimant numbers remain steady across Greater Manchester

Figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that unemployment remained at virtually the same level across Greater Manchester from May to June.

The number of jobseeker’s allowance (JSA) claimants in Greater Manchester increased very slightly by 75 and was recorded at 76,677 in June 2011 – a rise of 0.1% on the May 2011 figure. This compares to regional (North West) and national declines of 0.6% and 0.8% respectively.

Over the year, Jobseekers claimants have increased in eight of Greater Manchester’s ten local authorities – a combined rise of more than 3.0%. In absolute terms, this represents more than 2,000 additional claimants.

Mike Emmerich, chief executive of New Economy, said: “Whilst it is encouraging that claimant numbers didn’t go up last month, the longer-term trend over the last year has been negative. As the economy continues to struggle, we expect to see claimant numbers rising, particularly amongst the most vulnerable groups, young people and the long-term unemployed. Turning the economy around remains the priority if employment is to improve.”

At a district level, the trends vary in terms of monthly change. For example, Bury, Salford, Stockport, Tameside and Trafford experienced a combined decline in JSA claimants of nearly 300 between May and June. In contrast, Bolton, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale and Wigan suffered an overall increase of over 350.

With the exception of Stockport and Trafford, all local authorities in Greater Manchester have experienced an increase in the total number of JSA claimants – which is in line with regional and national trends.

The ONS figures will contribute towards New Economy’s research and in particular, the Manchester Monitor – a monthly analytical snapshot of the economic wellbeing of the city region.