Unemployment benefits fall 7 per cent in West Dunbartonshire

The latest employment statistics reveal successes across all age groups in the area.

Ewan Speedie, of Dumbarton Jobcentre, said: "With spring just around the corner, we're looking forward to helping more jobseekers and local businesses.

"For jobseekers, our work coaches are geared up to provide the right support to get them job-ready, including access to training and voluntary work experience.

"This, along with specialist services through the Disability Employment Advisors, can act as a springboard to a new career.

"For employers, we can host recruitment days and identify suitable applicants to fill their vacancies, and we’d encourage them to get in touch to find out more."

The job centre is working closely with partners, including the local authority, to help fill vacancies in various sectors.

Mr Speedie added: "Currently there are vacancies in virtually every sector, whether that’s hospitality, retail, health care, or adult social care, and we are working closely with employers in a range of sectors across West Dunbartonshire to help fill their vacancies.

"We are working closely with partners, including the local authority, with a very successful youth event held in Dumbarton in January and a recent multi-sector recruitment event held in the Jobcentre provided opportunities for customers to meet face-to-face with employers.

"We are delighted to host employers on our sites and would be delighted to hear from you if you wish to use our facilities free of charge."

Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: "Since July, wages have continued to grow at pace, putting vital money back in people’s pockets as we work to make work pay and improve living standards for all.

"But these figures also show that too many people are being locked out of work and denied that chance, including those sick and disabled.

"Instead of writing people off and labelling them, we must step up our support."