Positive trend continues as JSA claimant rate in Greater Birmingham decreases faster than the national rate

Following the national trend, figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirm continued employment growth in the Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP region, as the number of people claiming Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) drops to 4.9%.

Maintaining a continuous month on month decrease, the number of claimants has fallen to 45,122 across the GBSLEP Local Authorities at the end of July 2014. Whilst not seasonally adjusted, the latest figures show a significant improvement from the same month last year, with 15,980 less unemployed.

Commenting on the positive news, Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP Chair, Andy Street, said; “Decreasing at a faster rate than the national average, the figures are a clear indication of the economic recovery gathering strong momentum in our region. The latest figures are also a significant mile stone as the JSA claimant rate falls below 5% for the first time since the inception of GBSLEP.”

-ENDS-

For press enquiries, please contact Sarah Burton at NC Creative Group – 0121 711 6510 or email [email protected]

For further information regarding GBSLEP, please contact Tony Adams at GBSLEP - 0121 303 8107 or email [email protected]