THE number of people claiming Job Seeker’s Allowance fell by 2.8 per cent in Bury last month, latest job market figures have revealed.

In December 2016, 2690 people of all ages were claiming the benefits — a reduction from 2765 in November.

Youth unemployment figures also fell in the same period by six per cent, with 620 under-18s claiming JSA in December compared to 660 in November.

Julie Wills, one of the partnership managers for the Department for Work and Pensions in Greater Manchester, said: “Job Centre Plus staff at a local level are working hard with numerous partners, such as training providers, local authorities and employers, to make sure they can maximise the opportunities for those who are trying to find employment.

“We are supporting employers and candidates in order to fill vacancies.”

Ms Wills said the DWP wants to ensure there are as many opportunities as possible for residents in Bury.

The DWP is working with employers in Bury such as Dunelm, which is opening a new call centre, and McDonald’s to fill posts. Ms Wills encouraged those still looking for work to continue engaging with staff at their nearest Job Centre Plus, who will be able to offer them tailored and ongoing support.

Region-wide in the North West, unemployment fell by 0.2 per cent since December 2015, and the number of women in work has risen by 48,000 over the past year to record high of 1.64 million women in work. Nationally, 31.8 million people are in work – an increase of over 2.7 million since 2010, and of 294,000 compared to this time last year.