Claimant numbers continue to rise across Greater Manchester

Figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that unemployment in Greater Manchester has increased by 2.9% between July and August.

The number of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) claimants in Greater Manchester was recorded at 81,140 in August 2011 – a rise of 2,250. Regional (north west) and national JSA numbers also increased from July to August, by 2.7% and 2.3% respectively.

Unemployment in Greater Manchester is now at a rate and level unseen for more than a year – since March 2010 – and has continued in an upwards trend since December 2010.

Year on year, the proportion of Greater Manchester’s resident working age population claiming JSA has risen by 8.4%. This represents 6,315 additional claimants.

All districts in Greater Manchester have seen a monthly increase in JSA claimants between July and August. The lowest rise of 1.2% was seen in Trafford – where there was only an increase of 100 claimants – whilst Oldham has recorded the biggest increase at 5.7% – an additional 410 claimants.

Year on year, the largest increases in JSA numbers have been in Oldham (14.2), Bolton (11.9), Rochdale (10.2), and Tameside (10.0).

Dr Alexander Roy, head of research for New Economy, said: “The last time that Greater Manchester experienced such a low point was in December 2010. Since then, there has been an increase of 10,155 JSA claimants.

“These worrying levels have not been seen for some time in Greater Manchester but they are unsurprising, considering national and global economic conditions. With confidence flagging, and businesses suffering numerous pressures, there are fewer vacancies and more and more people looking for work.

“All things considered, unfortunately the situation is likely to get worse before it gets better, and attention is now focused on national and global policy-makers’ responses.”