More people in North Lanarkshire are finding their way into work, as this month’s employment statistics show 'encouraging progress' across the region. The overall claimant count is down two per cent over the year, reflecting the continued work of Jobcentre teams to 'support people into employment and help employers access local talent'.
Positive Progress in Communities
The latest figures also show positive progress in a number of communities across North Lanarkshire. In Coatbridge and Bellshill, the overall claimant count is down eight per cent year-on-year, including a seven per cent reduction among young people aged 18 to 24. In Motherwell, Wishaw and Carluke, the overall claimant count is down one per cent, while the number of claimants aged 50 and over has fallen by three per cent.
Tailored Support for All
Alongside this progress, Jobcentre Plus continues to focus on providing tailored support for young people, older jobseekers, and people with disabilities and health conditions, helping them build confidence, develop skills and move closer to work. A key part of that support in North Lanarkshire is the continued focus on work experience and volunteering opportunities, helping jobseekers gain practical skills, build confidence and strengthen their CVs.
Summer Opportunities
Over the summer, customers are being encouraged to take part in a range of local opportunities, including Barista Taster Sessions in June, construction work experience placements, and retail-based roles and placements with organisations including Barnardo’s, Salvation Army, and the British Heart Foundation. These opportunities are designed to help people gain meaningful workplace experience and take positive steps towards employment.
Shaun Cowie, Jobcentre Plus external relations leader for North Lanarkshire, said: 'We know that when young jobseekers receive personalised support, they build the confidence to develop their skills, take their first steps into work, and start progressing in their careers. That’s why work coaches are working hard to ensure young people know about the wide range of opportunities and support available to them.'
Specialist Support
'Specialist support also continues to be available for those aged 50-plus and people with disabilities and health conditions, ensuring everyone can stay connected to opportunities. During the busy summer season, jobcentres are focused on helping young people take advantage of seasonal roles by working closely with employers to boost the supply of new workers. This includes opportunities linked to local festivals, tourism, hospitality and retail, alongside job fairs, Sector-based Work Academy Programmes and other initiatives designed to match young people with the right roles at the right time.'
Work Experience and Volunteering
Shaun added: 'There is also a continued focus in North Lanarkshire on work experience and volunteering, giving people the chance to build their confidence, gain practical skills and develop experience that can help them move into lasting employment. From barista tasters to construction placements and retail-based opportunities with well-known local organisations, these activities are helping people prepare for the workplace and see what is possible.'
Jobseekers are also encouraged to check out the range of vacancies available on Find a Job. With over 180 live vacancies currently advertised across North Lanarkshire, there are opportunities available in sectors including retail, hospitality, construction, logistics, engineering and manufacturing.
