LATEST figures have shown that the unemployment rate for those aged 18 to 24 in West Dunbartonshire has dropped by as much as 25 per cent.

A report has revealed that, as of August, 410 people between 18 to 24 claimed benefits, which equates to 140 less than the figure last year.

And the total number of those seeking benefits is also down too, with 2035 looking for work.

That figure is down by 145 claimants, representing a seven per cent drop in claimants.

Tracy Eacups, service delivery team leader at Dumbarton Job Centre, told The Reporter how continued efforts, coupled with work experience placements, are playing a significant role on finding people work.

She added: "I think the figures are very positive, the drop in unemployed on year, 25 per cent for 18 to 24 year-olds and since 2010 is staggering, -59 and -39%.

"It is evidence to show that the jobcentre is committed to helping people into employment.

"It also supports the focus we now have in the Jobcentres where by our work coaches' goal is to get to know and help their customers in their journey towards work.

"We have regular engagement with employers in the area and regularly work with them in the Jobcentres to promote their vacancies."

Official employment figures, released last week, show that there are now a record number of people in work, the highest level since records began in 1971.

The figures, released by the Office of National Statistics, also show that unemployment is at 4.3 per cent, the lowest since 1975.

A spokesperson for the DWP said: "The increase is due to people of all ages finding work, with employment levels of those over 50 in work reaching a record high, youth unemployment falling by over 40 per cent since 2010 and the proportion of young people who are unemployed and not in full time education dropping below 5 per cent for the first time.

"These record figures have been driven by increases in full-time and permanent work.

"In the last year there has been a shift from part-time to full-time employment, 20,000 fewer people relying on zero hour contracts and full-time and permanent employment are both at a record high."

Separate figures out last week show 1.4 million claims have been made to Universal Credit and of the 590,000 people now on Universal Credit, 39 per cent are in work.

Minister for Employment Damian Hinds said: “The strength of the economy is helping people of all ages find work, from someone starting their first job after leaving education, to those who might be starting a new career later in life.

“Britain’s employment success is largely about a growth in full-time and permanent work, as employers invest in Britain and offer quality job opportunities that put more money into people’s pockets.

“But there is more to do, and we will continue to build on our achievements through our employment programmes and the work of Jobcentre Plus.”

A local Dumbarton JC Jobsfair takes place on Wednesday, September 27.

Employers confirmed so far include: Morrisons, OPOS, Cameron House, Brightwork, Dumbuck, McDonald's, Clydebank Private Hire, Gravitas, Skapade.