THE NUMBER of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Malvern Hills remains the lowest in Worcestershire.
Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show just 385 residents received the benefit in August – 157 fewer than this time last year.
It means the number of people claiming JSA in the district has been cut by almost three times since August 2010, when 1,004 people were out of work and claiming benefits.
The figure remained the same as last month and is only one higher than the all-time record for the area of 384 in June.
It compares to 1,041 people in neighbouring Worcester, 635 in Wychavon, 716 in Redditch, 600 in Bromsgrove and 749 in Wyre Forrest.
Coun Rebecca Massey, portfolio holder for economy at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “It is encouraging unemployment in the Malvern Hills remains the lowest across Worcestershire and just one above the record low for the district.
“More than 36,000 people are now in work across the district and together with rising wages this shows the economy is in a good position.”
Despite the number of claiments in West Worcestershire rising to its highest point since April (462), it is still 208 fewer than 12 months ago and 63 per cent lower than in 2010.
Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, added: “Figures show the employment rate has risen to a record high of 73.5 per cent, with the private sector continuing to create new jobs and delivering growth both nationally and locally.
“I am pleased with the continued downward trend and welcome the numbers of new jobs being created on a week-by-week basis.
“However, it is important that we continue our aim towards full employment and I hope our world class businesses in Worcestershire will keep growing and creating new jobs to give local people the security of a regular pay packet.”
