Drop in Jobseekers Allowance claims across ward

The drop in job seekers leaves the Batley and Spen figure of claimants at 1,603, which is 128 people less than last month.

In the 18-24 age group, 390 now remain on Jobseekers Allowance in Batley and Spen – a 43 per cent reduction from this time last year.

Operations manager for the Jobcentre Plus in Kirklees, Jo Ledgard said: “We’ve seen another good set of labour market statistics.

“We are doing a lot with young people people who are making some good connections with employers. That work is continuing. We are also working to support people with apprenticeships.”

She added that 300-500 temporary packaging and production line roles will begin at Fox’s Biscuits at the end of July.

Though the bulk of these positions may be taken by people who worked for the company temporarily in previous years, job seekers on various types of benefits can apply forremaining vacancies as part of a sector-based work academy.

Assessment sessions for the this, which will see if potential employees match the job’s criteria, begin next week with a further two coming up in July.

Successful applicants would then be invited to start a week-long training programme provided by Staffline.

Those who complete the training would receive a health and safety qualifcation and may gain temporary employment with Fox’s. Others will be helped by Staffline to look for relevant employment.

“People who are interested should call into the job centre,” Jo said.