THE number of people claiming benefits in Swindon has fallen sharply.

New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions show that 4,465 people were on Universal Credits last month, which is 1,935 (30 per cent) fewer than the year before.

Of these, 750 claimants are aged 18 to 24, though there were 355 more in this age range in September 2021.

Staff at the Swindon Jobcentre are working with the Swindon Social Enterprise Network on Project Aspire.

This new venture has been set up to support unemployed people who face multiple barriers to finding work and help them move closer to the labour market.

With an employer on board, clients who take part will receive support from IPSUM rehabilitation services, an independent HR consultant, financial first aiders, and guaranteed job interviews with Nanogreen Cleaning.

This is the first such project of its kind but, if successful, could be expanded more widely.

Engagement with the scheme is similarly strong with GXO Logistics, which is keen to support Ukrainians in the town.

Earlier this month, a special recruitment event was held specifically to highlight the roles available and offer support where possible.

Particular support is being given to support with managing where English competency is required.

Sally Cook is the DWP employer and partnership manager for Swindon and Wiltshire.

She said: “Employment challenges for people are very real. Some people need more support than others to improve their confidence and remove any barriers they may have.

"Within Jobcentre Plus, we are focused on supporting everyone, no matter what they are facing when it comes to securing work. We pride ourselves on tailored support to meet the individual’s needs.

"From job opportunities in jobcentres to skills academies for people considering a new career, there’s a huge amount of help available, and our work coaches are working tirelessly to get people at any age, or career stage, into rewarding and stable employment.” 

With the festive season fast approaching the hospitality industry is working with Jobcentre Plus to fill thousands of jobs.

The dedicated online hospitality section means there is 24-hour information for jobseekers.

Jobcentre work coaches are focussed on helping employers get the people they and the economy needs, by regularly hosting hospitality-specific recruitment events - many even offer jobs on the spot.  

The ‘Find a Job’ website www.gov.uk/find-a-job is a DWP portal which signposts claimants to jobs, with 11,000 jobs just in hospitality and catering.