Chamber Reacts To Latest Claimant Count Figures For Derbyshire

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Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce says there is no cause to over-react following a slight increase in people claiming Job Seekers Allowance in Derby in July.

 

Latest figures show that whilst the number of claimants in Derbyshire went down from 15,292 in June to 15,035 in July, in Derby, the figure for the same period actually increased slightly, from 7,060 to 7,149.

 

Scott Knowles, Deputy Chief Executive of the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The number of claimants in Derbyshire falling again, for the fifth month in a row, is a positive indicator and whilst the slight increase in claimants in Derby is a concern, it is important not to get too carried away at this stage, as this could be a seasonal blip.

 

 

“Despite positive signs of growth earlier this year, trading conditions remain tough and there are still lingering fears that the economy may dip back towards recession. We are still waiting for the full effects of the government’s package of austerity measures to filter through and these are bound to have an impact on local employment.

 

“However, many businesses in the county will continue to take a pragmatic approach and cut their cloth accordingly. Whilst a number of big firms in Derby have announced reductions to their workforce in recent months, several more have announced that they will continue to create jobs and recruit and this should help to keep the local job market moving.

 

“It’s crucial that the government delivers on its pledge to put business at the heart of the economic recovery by taking positive steps to remove barriers to growth and promote wealth and job creation. Particular focus must be placed on rebalancing the economy in favour of manufacturing and the private sector.”